
Class _2I1_£L£: 



Book 



Copyrights 



COFkTUGHT DEPOSIT. 



LESSONS 



IN 



PARLIAMENTARY 



W kT 



LAW 



BY MRS. ERWIN CRAIGHEAD 



W. B. Delchamps Printing Co. 

Mobile, Alabama 

1914 



Lessons 



in 



Parliamentary Law 



with 

Table, Diagram of Precedence of 
Motions; Charts, Drills, Review 
Lessons and Index :: :: :: :: 



Designed especially for members of 
Women's Clubs, Societies, etc., but 
adapted as well to the needs of 
members of Men's Organizations and 
students generally :: :: :: :: 



BY 
MRS. ERWIN CRAIGHEAD 

MOBILE 



W. B. Delchamps Printing Co. 

Mobile, Ala. 

1914 



Cg3 



Copyright, 1914 
by 

Mrs. Erwin Craighead 



MAY 15 1914 

'C CI A :{ 7 ( 903 
*-0, 



DEDICATED 

TO THE FIRST ORGANIZATION THAT DEVELOPED 

FROM THE AUTHOR'S CLASSES 

THE PARLIAMENTARY LAW STUDY CLUB 

OF 

MOBILE, ALA. 

ORGANIZED JUNE 25, 1913 

FEDERATED FEBRUARY 28, 1914 



DIAGRAM OF PARLIAMENTARY MOTIONS 



(1) Time 

Fix to which to Adjourn. 



Adjourn — Recess. 





^? / Q uestions of Privilege^ 

* /<4> 

Orders of the Day. 



INCIDENTAL MOTIONS 





VMPI BG 



Objection! j M t.,. . | c ^ 

{ Reading (Withdraw Suspend 

Conside / r-j p ape rs ! iviJL„ I 
ation 






Lay on the Table. 
Previous Question. 
Postpone Definitely. 
Commit. 



Amend. 

(6) Postpone 
Indefinitely 

MAIN 
MOTION 




Roman Numerals: — Class. 

Arabic Numerals: Order of 
pi ecedence In relation to 
ich other. 

Vote required, 

d Ink : i adebatable. 



/: — Undebatable if non deba- 
table questions are pend- 
ing. 

O: — Debatable if made when 
no other motions are pend- 
ing. 

^:— Debatable if qualified. 



THE DIAGRAM. 

The Main Motion is placed at the bottom of the figure 
because it is the lowest in the order of precedence of all the 
motions notwithstanding the fact that it is the motion upon 
which all action is based. The other motions are placed 
above it in regular order, proceeding from the lowest to the 
highest in the order of precedence, the highest being at the 
top of the figure. The Roman numerals in the margin indi- 
cate the Four Classes of Motions; the Arabic numerals in 
parentheses at the left of the motions indicate their order of 
precedence among themselves; and as the Incidental Motions 
have no order of precedence among themselves, they are 
placed in the same space and are not numbered. The UN- 
DEBATABLE MOTIONS are printed in RED INK, and the 
small marks and fractions are explained on the Diagram. 

Throughout the Lessons numerals refer to pages unless 
preceded by a specific sign or word, or followed by some 
specific matter. 

References at conclusion of subject or lesson are to sub- 
jects treated of and do not imply agreement with statements 
in the lessons in all particulars. 

References are to the following editions: Robert, 1904; 
Reed, 1898; Cushing, 1887; Shattuck, 1895; Hollister, 1902; 
Pox, 1913. 

The diagram method of illustrating the precedence of 
motions was suggested to me in Mrs. John F. Lewis' little 
book on parliamentary procedure. 



PREFACE. 

This little book is published in response to the request 
of members of the author's classes of 1913. It is their desire 
to have the lessons, with the references, which they are kind 
enough to consider a valuable feature, in permanent form. 
The Lessons, although based upon some six manuals of rec- 
ognized authority, are not intended to take the place of the 
manuals. On the contrary, the writer hopes that the Lessons 
will be of use in the study of the subject, the question and 
answer form being designed to bring forward and emphasize 
the salient points of the laws set forth in the manuals. 

In preparing these Lessons a thorough study was made 
of what has been written of parliamentary law; and especial 
attention has been paid to the manuals of six authors, best 
known as authorities on the subject: "Rules of Order," by 
Henry M. Robert; "Parliamentary Rules," by Thomas B. 
Reed; "Cushing's Manual," by Luther S. Cushing; "The 
Woman's Manual of Parliamentary Law," by Harriette B. 
Shattuck; "Parliamentary Usage," by Emma A. Fox; "Man- 
ual of Parliamentary Terms and Procedure," by Lillian M. 
Hollister. Other manuals carefully studied and occasionally 
quoted are: "Parliamentary Law with Diagram of Motions," 
by Nanette B. Paul; "Compendium and Question Book of 
Parliamentary Law," by Lillian Cole Bethel; Mrs. John F. 
Lewis' "Lessons and the House Manual and Digest" (1912), 
containing Thomas Jefferson's "Manual, the Rules of the 
House and a Digest of their Practice," compiled and arranged 
by Mr. Charles R. Crisp, of Georgia, Clerk at the Speaker's 
Desk." Through Mrs. Hollister's valuable "Digest of Opin- 
ions," etc., included in her Manual, access was had to the 
opinions of other writers, than those already enumerated, 
on certain mooted points or practices, as follows: Waples' 
Hand Book, Roberts' Syllabus, Neeley's Parliamentary Prac- 
tice, Steven's Law of Assemblies, Warrington's Manual, 
Crocker's Parliamentary Procedure, Smith's Diagram of Par- 
liamentary Rules, and Fish's Manual. 

The answers in the Lessons, in many instances, may be 
called "composite," because it may be that only one com- 
ponent part of an answer will be found in any one of the 



8 

references appended to it or in any one of the manuals con- 
ilted. As a rule the first authority referred to is the one 
by whose text the major part of the answer was suggested, 
and who is the preferred authority. An earnest and con- 
scientious effort has been made to be accurate and to un- 
derstand the point of view, but as it is difficult to attain per- 
fection, the author apologizes in advance for any mistakes 
of interpretation or errors of judgment. 

Jn noting differences of opinion or commenting upon any 
given subject it has been thought best to include the notes 
in the lesson devoted to that subject and in immediate prox- 
imity to it, where possible, rather than to put such matter in 
foot notes or as appendices. 

in the Review Lesson the purpose is to draw together 
and call attention to those motions most frequently used, 
and therefore most necessary to practice and to know. 

In conclusion, it must be confessed that where differences 
of moment exist between well known and competent author- 
ities it is difficult to decide what to teach as authoritative. 
For this reason the conflicting opinions were carefully com- 
pared and, except in a few instances where general custom 
appeared to be against it, that opinion which appealed to the 
judgment of the writer as being most logical and practical 
was selected. Organizations and students will do well to 
follow the authority preferred by each, the organization be- 
ing at liberty to adopt in addition such special rules as may 
seem necessary. It should always be remembered that the 
spirit of the law is its most essential part, the spirit is jus- 
tice, tempered by good sense and kindness. 



LESSON I. 

Introduction to Parliamentary Law; The Main Motion; Ob- 
jection to Consideration; Withdrawal of Motion; Division 
of Motion; Principles Applying to Motions in General; 
Motions that May be Made Without Obtaining the Floor; 
Motions that Require no Second. 

"Wherever there is an assembly there is need for parlia- 
mentary law." — Reed. 

"It is very material that order, decency and regularity 
be preserved in a dignified public body." — Hatsell. 



1. What is Parliamentary Law? 

The body of laws or rules in common use in legislative 
and all other deliberative bodies for the orderly, accurate 
and expeditious conduct of business. They are the result of 
accumulated experience and are generally approved and ac- 
cepted. 

2. Why it is called parliamentary law? 

Because as a system it had its origin many generations 
ago in the British Parliament. 

3. Is it unchangeable and arbitrary? 

The principles upon which it is based have become fixed, 
but the system as it exists today is the result of natural 
growth and selection, and is still in process of development, 
such new precedents being established and new rules added, 
from time to time, as in the general experience are found 
to be necessary and sound. 

4. Why should every one be familiar with the funda- 
mental principles and practice of parliamentary law? 

Because the increasing tendency toward organization and 
the resulting number of organized bodies makes it probable 
that any person, whether man or woman, may be called upon 
at. some time to participate in a public meeting or an organ- 
ized effort for the general good, and should be able to do so 
with confidence and in a manner to inspire respect. If not 
called upon to take part in the proceedings an intelligent un- 
derstanding of the science of conducting meetings properly is 
nevertheless desirable. 



10 

5 Upon what fixed principles is it based? 

1. Equality, which means, that as members of the ag- 
gregate body each person shall have equal Opportunity to 
participate in its business. 

2. Justice: each shall have fair and impartial treatment 
and be protected from discourteous interruptions and per- 
sonalities. 

3. That the majority shall rule, it being conceded that 
the will and judgment of the collective body can only be 
adequately expressed in this way. 

4. That the minority also have rights and that they 
must be preserved. 

5. That only one thing shall be under consideration at 
the same time. 

6. That no action shall be taken without due delibera- 
tion. 

6. What is the object of parliamentary law? 

To enable an assembly to ascertain the will or judgment 
of the majorky, to shape its actions accordingly and to trans- 
act its business, as Jefferson says, with "economy of time, 
crder, uniformity and impartiality." 

7. Is the parliamentary law in common use in the United 
States the same as that in use in Great Britain? 

No. A few radical changes have been made by Congress, 
such changes as make it better adapted to a popular govern- 
ment than is the English law. The rules of Congress, modi- 
fied where necessary by special rules, are in general use in 
the United States and constitute American Parliamentary 
Law. Parliamentary law has become a part of general law, 
and is recognized by courts of law as legal and binding. 

8. Parliamentary law is divided into how many classes? 
Two: General and Special. 

9. What are Special Rules? 

Such as are not to be found in the general law, but may 
be necessary to an individual organization. They must b« 
based upon the fundamental principles of parliamentary law 
and adopted in a parliamentary manner to be sound, or legal. 
They may be compared with statutory laws, and for the or- 
ganization adopting them they are superior to the general 
laws, just as statutory laws are superior to the common civil 
law in the state adopting them. 



11 

10. When can an association make special rules? 
Not until it is completely organized. 

11. When does a special rule become a part of Parlia- 
mentary law? 

After it has received the approval of many assemblies, 
and the sanction of time, so that it has become generally 
adopted. 

12. What is the understanding with which assemblies 
meet, and why? 

Action taken irresponsibly, without any law or order or 
the consent of the majority, would not be legal or binding; 
therefore, assemblies meet with the tacit understanding that 
they will be governed by such parliamentary rules as are in 
general use, unless conditions require special rules. 

13. In parliamentary law, what is the general principle 
of decision? 

The natural one: that the will of the majority shall gor- 
ern. Reed 28; Robert 110;. Cushing 24. 

14. Are there any exceptions to this general rule? 

Yes. A plurality vote is adopted by special rule in some 
cases; a two-thirds vote is occasionally necessary to protect 
the right of the minority, and there are times when. even a 
unanimous vote is required. 

References — Parliamentary Law: Robert 17, 19; Reed 
11, 15; Cushing 9, 19; Shattuck 9, 13. Mrs. Shattuck's In- 
troduction and Conclusion and Reed's Chapter I are especial- 
ly recommended for reading. 

THE MAIN MOTION OR THE INTRODUCTION OF 

BUSINESS. 

"Before one begins, there is need of forethought, and 
after we have carefully considered, there is need of speedy 
excution.' — Sallust. 



15. How is parliamentary law applied. 
By means of motions. 

16. What is a Motion? 

A Motion is the statement in parliamentary form of some 
proposition upon which the maker of the motion desires the 
assembly to take favorable action. 



12 

17. Can a proposition be introduced for consideration 
and action in any other way than by means of a motion? 

The only proper basis for business is a Formal Motion, 
regularly made, stated and put to vote. Shattuck 53; Robert 

; dishing 35; Reed 76. 
is. When may such a motion (called variously: an "In- 
dependent, Main, Principal, or Original Motion or Resolu- 
tion) be made? 

At any time when no other is pending. (Pending means: 
has the floor — is under consideration). 

19. What is the difference between a Motion and a Res- 
olution? 

There is no practical difference, as each is merely a form, 
or vehicle, for presenting a proposition. The Resolution is 
the more formal of the two, and therefore is more appropri- 
ate under some circumstances, such, for instance, as when 
"a resolution of thanks" is the subject. 

20. What should be the character and form of a Motion, 
and what words should be used? 

Any words that clearly express the meaning may be 
used, but the Motion should be as concise as possible, and 
should relate to one subject. 

21. Should it be affirmative or negative in form? 
Affirmative — that is: so expressed that the vote in favor 

of it will be Yes, and not No. 

22. Should it be verbal or written? 

Is usually made verbally, but if long, or involved, or pre- 
sented in a large assembly, should be written. 

23. How, that is, by what process should a Motion be made? 
(1) Member rises and addresses Chair. (2) Chair 

"recognizes" member, thereby "giving her the floor." 
(3) Member having "obtained the floor," makes motion and 
resumes seat. (4) Another member seconds the motion (it 
a second is required). (5) Chair states motion. (6) Chair 
gives opportunity for debate, and then asks, "Are you ready 
for the question?" (7) The motion is put to vote and the 
result declared. 

24. What is the proper form for introducing it? 

If verbal, it should be introduced as follows: "Madam 
(or Mrs. or Mr.) Chairman (or President, or other proper 
title), I move that our club have its annual meeting in the 



13 

lecture hall of the Bayside Park." If written, it is usually 
presented in the form of a resolution, as follows: "Offered 
by (name of author): Resolved, That our club," etc. After 
reading, the author will say: "I move that the resolution be 
adopted." 

25. What right has the chair in regard to the introduc- 
tion of motions or resolutions? 

May require them to be written. 

26. Should business be suspended while a motion is be- 
ing written? 

No; and if the order of business is completed while this 
is being done and a new order of business is entered upon, 
under which the motion cannot be entertained, the oppor- 
tunity of presenting the motion may be lost. 

27. Are there any motions that may be made without 
obtaining the floor? 

Only a few, as follows: Call for the Orders of the Day, 
Point of Order, Question of Privilege, An Appeal. Fox 92. 

28. What is meant by: "The Chair Recognizes the mem- 
ber?" 

When a member rises to make a motion and addresses 
the chair (presiding officer), the chair responds by calling the 
member's name so that all may know that "Mrs. Hall" ha* 
the floor. Member (rising and addressing chair) : "Madam 
President." The chair (addressing the member) : "Mrs. Hall." 
This constitutes recognition and secures the floor for the 
member, who then proceeds to make her motion. If the name 
is unknown to the chair, it may be asked for, or recognition 
may be given in any polite, tactful way that will serve to 
single out that particular member as having the floor. 

29. What is meant by "Seconding" the motion? 

After a motion is made or a resolution offered, some 
member signifies approval (practically votes for it) by say- 
ing: "Madam Chairman, I second the motion (or resolution)." 

30. Must a motion have a second? 

Seconding is customary in ordinary societies, but should 
not be obligatory. 

NOTE. 

A majority of the parliamentarians consulted require 
a second to motions, but motions are not seconded in either 
house of Congress except in a few cases, by special rule. The 



14 

requirement of a second became obsolete in the House of 
Representatives very early and was dropped from the rules 
in 1SS0. A second is no longer required by the Legislature 
of Massachusetts, and in many other legislative bodies and 
large associations it is no longer insisted upon. The opinion 
advanced by Mrs. Shattuck, "that one member has as much 
right to present a proposition as two members," and, that 
"while a motion may be seconded, it need not be," is sound. 
References — Seconding of Motions: House Manual and 
Digest 148, 329; Shattuck 58; Reed 77; Robert 29 (also note); 
Cushing 40; Fox 88; Hollister 41. 

31. Must one who seconds a motion be recognized by the 
chair. 

Majority say that she must rise and be recognized. Robert 
says any one may second a motion without rising or address- 
ing the chair. In the judgment of the writer, if seconding is 
required, in large, formal assemblies one should rise and b« 
recognized; in small gatherings seconding a motion with- 
out this formality should be permitted. 

32. What motions do not require a second, even where 
seconding is customary? 

Robert's list is as follows: Orders of the Day, Questions 
of Order, Objection to Consideration of a Question, and Mat- 
ters of Routine. To Robert's list Mrs. Hollister adds: 
Call for Division, Call for Reading Papers (bearing 
on the subject under discussion), Filling Blanks, Nominations, 
Questions of Privilege, and Withdrawal of a Motion. Robert 
30; Hollister 16; Fox 92. 

33. When is a proposition properly before a meeting for 
discussion (debate) and action, and what is it then called? 

After the chair has "stated" it. It is then called "Th* 
Question." If it orders something to be done, it is called 
an "Order." 

34. What is "Stating" the motion? 

When the presiding officer presents a motion to the as- 
sembly as follows, "It has been moved and seconded that 
(repeating the proposition as nearly as possible in the exact 
words of the mover) she "states" the motion. The motion 
thereby becomes the property of the assembly and no longer 
"belongs/ 1 so to speak, to the author of it. 



is 

35. When the motion is stated what follows? 

Debate, if the motion is debatable, as all independent or 
main motions are. 

36. If Debate does not immediately ensue, what should 
the chair do? 

The chair calls for remarks, unless the motion is unde- 
batable, in which case it is put to vote at once. In an inex- 
perienced assembly the chair should encourage members to 
express their views. 

37. What two extremes should a fair minded chairman 
avoid? 

Suppressing a motion because it has not been seconded, 
or putting one to vote hastily, without giving opportunity for 
debate. 

38. What is meant by "Putting" the motion. 

Taking the vote on it. When the limit of debate has been 
reached the chair asks: "Are you ready for the question?" or 
"Are there any remarks?" or "Are there any further re- 
marks." all of which mean simply: "Have you discussed this 
question sufficiently, and are you now ready to decide it by 
vote?" 

39. What votes are taken? 

Both the affirmative and the negative, and the affirma- 
tive is taken first. It is the duty of the chair to announce 
the result. This is called "Declaring the vote." 

40. What effect has an affirmative vote on a motion? 

It orders the action outlined by the motion to be carried 
out. A negative vote defeats the proposed action. 

41. How does the chair Declare the result? 

On the affirmative vote: "The motion is carried," is the 
usual form. Other forms are: "The motion is adopted, or 
prevails, is ordered, is a vote." On the negative: "The mo- 
tion is lost." 

42. How many Classes of Motions are there? 

Four, and a few unclassified or miscellaneous ones. The 
four are: (1) Main Motion (or Resolution) ; (2) Subsidiary 
Motions (Dependent or Secondary), (3) Incidental Motions; 
(4) Privileged Motions. Two, three and four are what are 
known as "Technical Motions." 

43. When a main or principal motion is before an as- 
sembly, what other motions may be made? 

Any of the so-called "technical" motions. 



16 

4 4. Need any of these be written? 

The form of all except amendments, being fixed, short 
and easily remembered, it is not necessary to write them. 
Amendments, however, if long or involved, should be written. 

45. When a motion is recognized as pending, must it 
be disposed of at the same meeting? 

Yes, unless it is withdrawn or the meeting adjourns. It 
may, however, be interrupted by motions having precedence 
of it; but, as it is merely suspended until such motions are 
acted upon, consideration of it must be resumed unless it 
has itself been disposed of by the action taken on the inter 
rupting motions. Robert 175. 

46. What are the four most important points to be re- 
membered about a motion? 

1. How to correctly present it. 2. How to state it. 
3. How to put it to vote. 4. How to announce the result. 
Lewis. 

47. What General Principles apply to any ordinary mo- 
tion or amendment. 

1. No motion can be made unless a quorum is present. 

2. Any motion properly presented must be considered. 

3. The floor must be obtained to either make or second 
a motion. 

4. It cannot be made while another motion is pending. 

5. It must be seconded, (if the seconding of motions is 
obligatory). 

6. It is debatable, but debate must be confined strictly 
to the motion. 

7. It can be amended. 

8. It requires a majority vote, and the vote can be re- 
considered. Robert 12; Fox 90. 

NOTE. 

Motions that are not governed by the above principles 
are exceptions to the general rule. There are a number of 
reasonable exceptions in regard to which parliamentarians 
differ, but only slightly. These will appear in the text in 
their proper connection. 

References — The Main Motion: Robert Article I, Part 1, 
25; Article II, 32; Reed Chapter VIII, 74; Cushing Chapter 
iV, 34; Shattuck Chapter V, 53; Hollister 41; Fox Chapter 
V, 54. 



17 

DRILL. 

Practice the making, seconding, stating, putting and de- 
claring of an independent or main motion. 

OBJECTION TO CONSIDERATION. 

48. When a motion is- made that seems out of place, 
profitless or objectionable in any way, what Incidental Mo- 
tion may be used to prevent its discussion? 

Objection to consideration. 

49. To what class of motions does Objection to Consid- 
eration apply? 

To principal or main motions only. 

50. When should it be made? 

It must be made immediately, before discussion has be- 
gun, and the mover need not wait to be recognized by the 
chair. 

51. What is the form for making it? 

"Madam Chairman, I object to the consideration of the 
question," or "Madam Chairman, on that question I raise the 
question of consideration." It can be made while a member 
has the floor. 

52. How does the chair state it? 

"The question of consideration is raised. Shall the ques- 
tion be considered? All in favor say 'Aye;' opposed, 'No.'" 

53. Can it be debated or have any Subsidiary or Second- 
ary motions applied to it? 

It cannot be debated or have any secondary motions ap- 
plied to it. 

In what does Objection to Consideration differ from 
any other motion? 

It is the only one that is carried by a negative vote. It 
requires a two-thirds vote. 

55. What is the effect of the negative vote on the meas- 
ure objected to? 

A negative vote prevents any discussion and dismisses 
the question objected to as if it had never been brought up, 
and for the entire session, it need not even be recorded. 
If the vote is affirmative, the subject is taken up and dis- 
cussed as usual. 

56. Can the vote on Objection to Consideration be re- 
considered. 



IS 

Ves, but not if the vote is in the affirmative and consid- 
eration has begun. Reed 218 (table) ; 219 (4) ; Robert 74, S 
( table). 

57. What high privilege has Objection to Consideration. 
Xo other motion is in order while it is pending. 

58. Can the chair put this question without a motion 
from the floor? 

Yes. 

59. Can a motion that has been suppressed by objection to 
its consideration be renewed? 

Not at the same meeting, and if brought up at any meet- 
ing following must come up as new business. 

60. What motions which yield to all other Incidental 
mictions do not yield to Objection to Consideration? 

To Lay on the Table, Take from the Table, Postpone In- 
definitely; to Adjourn (if qualified). • 

References — Objection to Consideration: Robert 47, 1S2; • 
Reed SO, 139; Fox 67; Hollister 45, 

WITHDRAWAL OF MOTION. 

61. Who may withdraw or modify a motion, or offer a sub- 
stitute for it at will, and under what circumstances? 

The mover, before it has been stated by the chair, 
because until then it belongs solely to the one who made it. 

62. If the motion has been seconded, what can the sec- 
ond do in case the motion is modified or a substitute is offered 
for it by the mover? 

May withdraw the second. 

63. Can a motion be withdrawn without the consent of 
the second? 

Xot if seconding is made obligatory, but the consent is 
seldom refused. 

64. What is the form used for Withdrawal, etc.? 
"Madam Chairman, I withdraw my motion," or "I wish 

to modify my motion as follows — ," or, "I offer the following 
substitute for my motion." If the motion has been stated, 
"Leave to withdraw" is asked as follows: "Madam Chair- 
man, I ask leave to withdraw my motion." 

65. When Leave to Withdraw is asked what will tHe 
chair do? 

Will say: "If there is no objection the member is allowed 
to withdraw the motion." If objection is made, the question 



!9 

of allowing the mover to withdraw or modify her motion 
must be put to the vote. 

66. Why cannot the maker of a motion withdraw it with- 
out the consent of the assembly after it is stated by the 
chair? 

Because after it is stated by the chair it is in the pos- 
session of the assembly and is no longer at the disposal of 
the mover. 

67. What may any other member besides the author or 
a motion do before it has been debated? 

May move that the author be allowed to withdraw her 
motion. If withdrawn it need not be recorded. 

68. If it is withdrawn, what becomes of any motions re- 
lating to it that may be pending, such as amendments, sub- 
sidiary motions, etc.? 

They are of necessity withdrawn also. 

69. To what class of motions does Withdrawal belong, 
and what questions does it precede? 

It is an Incidental Motion and precedes all the Subsidiary 
Motions. 

70. To what motions does it yield? 

To any Dending Incidental Motion, and to all Privileged 
Motions. (Precede means to go before, to outrank because 
superior to. Yield means to fall below, give place to because 
inferior to.) 

71. To what does Withdrawal apply? 

To Independent or Main Questions and Nominations. 

72. Can it be debated, or have any Subsidiary Motion 
applied to it? 

No. 

73. Can a motion be withdrawn after the vote on :t lias 
been ordered, or if it has been amended or changed in any 
way? 

Yes; on formal motion and vote. 

74. Can it be reconsidered or renewed? 

May be reconsidered, but not after the mover, having ob- 
tained leave to withdraw, has withdrawn it. It may be re- 
newed because it has never been acted upon. 

References — Withdrawal of Motions: Robert 49; Reed 
79, 137,219; dishing 91; Shattuck 62; Hollister 46; Fox 71. 



20 

DIVISION OF MOTION. 

75. When may a motion be divided? 

If it consists of two or more distinct parts, each of which 
contains a complete substantive proposition such as could 
be adopted independently, it may be divided. 

76. What is the nature of the motion to Divide. 

Is of the nature of an amendment, but differs a little in 
treatment. 

77. Can this motion be debated or amended? 

May be amended by dividing it differently; debate should 
be limited to the propriety of dividing. 

78. What is the form for making it? 

"Madam Chairman, I ask for a division of the question 
and move that it be divided into (so many parts), the first 

to end with the word in the second line, the second 

with the word in the fifth line," (and so on); or, "1 

move that the question be divided into three propositions, as 
follows: " (reading them). 

79. When divided what does the motion become? 

A series of questions to be considered and treated one by 
one, in the order stated, as if each were an independent 
proposition. 

80. Can any member demand a division of a question with- 
out a formal motion and vote? 

There is no such general rule. 

81. Has the chair the right to divide a question without 
a motion from the floor? 

No. 

82. What privilege has the chair if a member is allowed to 
call for a division without a motion from the floor? 

The chair can decide, subject to an appeal to the assem- 
bly, that the division proposed cannot be made, and Cushing 
says further that the chair is to decide whether the motion 
is susceptible of division and into how many and what parts 
it shall be divided. 

83. When a motion to divide is made from the floor, who 
makes the division. 

The maker of the motion. 

S4. Can the vote on this motion be reconsidered? 
Yes. 



21 

85. If a motion is complicated or involved, or too long 
to be easily understood and discussed as a whole, and yet is 
not suceptible of division into distinct substantive proposi- 
tions, what may be done with it? 

In lieu of division it may be amended in the usual man- 
ner, namely, by propositions to strike out, etc., or by substi- 
tution, or it may be referred to a committee for revision, etc. 
The committee may or may not be instructed, as seems best 

86. After the Previous Question has been ordered, may 
a division be called for? 

Yes. Fox 73: Reed 139. 

87. What cannot be divided? 

A Main Question, from its amendments; a motion to 
Commit, from its instructions; motion to strike out and in- 
sert; a preamble, from its resolutions. 

NOTE. 

There is difference of opinion on a number of points in 
regard to Division of Motion, as noted below: 

Cannot be Debated: Shattuck, Fox, Reed, Waples, Paul. 
Limited Debate, with varying conditions: Hollister, Crocker, 
and Stevens. Debate implied: Robert and Cushing. 

Member may call for Division without motion and vote, 
if there is no objection: Hollister and Fox. Motion from 
floor required: Robert, Reed and Shattuck (implied). 

Chair may divide without motion, if there is no objection 
and no rule to the contrary: Shattuck and Fox. Motion 
from floor required: Robert, Reed and Cushing. 

Chair may make the Division: Shattuck. Mover muit 
itate in the motion what division is desired: Majority. 

Can be reconsidered: Majority. Cannot be: Fox. 

References — Division of Motion: Robert 31, 67, 176; 
Reed 109; Cushing 55; Shattuck 64; Hollister 48; Fox 73. 

DRILL. 

A. Practice the forms for making all the motions in this 
lesson. 

B. Secure floor, offer a motion, second the motion, stat« 
it (as the chair should do), raise an objection to the consid- 
eration of the question, etc. 



LESSON II. 

Amendment: Primary and Secondary; Motions that Cannot 
be Amended; Ways to Amend or Modify a Motion; The 
Substitute Motion, Paragraph, etc.; Filling Blanks, or 
Sums, Times and Names; Amendment Chart. 



"The most important part in every affair is to know what 
is to be done." — Celebrated messages. 

88. What may be done with a motion that is not entirely 
satisfactory? 

It may be amended. 

89. What is an Amendment? 

An Amendment is an alteration, presumably for the bet- 
ter, as its name implies, but in practice it has come to mean 
a change of any sort, except of subject, even if the intent of 
the author of the motion is contradicted thereby. 

90. What must be the nature of an Amendment, and 
what is its effect? 

It must be "germane," or relevant to the subject of the 
main motion, and its effect is to place two motions before the 
assembly: The main or original motion (which introduces 
the subject) and the motion to Amend or change the original 
motion. 

91. Why allow an amendment to change the original pur- 
pose but not the subject of a motion? 

Because, after a proposition comes into the possession 
of an assembly, the right to decide what shall be done with 
it belongs to them and not to the mover, and, as Warrington 
says, "A member who offers a proposition in good faith is 
entitled to a vote upon it unembarrassed by other subjects, 
though he must submit to hostile amendments on the same 
general subject. 

92. If there is difference of opinion as to whether a pro- 
posed amendment is germane, who decides? 

The chair, who will refuse to entertain the amendment 
if it appears to be irrelevant. 

93. If the chair refuses to entertain an amendment on 
the ground that it is not germane, what can the mover do. 

May take an appeal. 



2 



o 



94. How many amendments may be before the meeting 
at the same time? 

Two, an amendment to the main motion and an amend- 
ment to the amendment. The amendment to the original 
motion is called a primary amendment, or an amendment ot 
the first degree, and the amendment to the amendment is a 
secondary amendment, or an amendment of the second de- 
gree. This is as far as amendment can go at one and the 
same time. 

95. To what does the first or primary amendment apply, 
and what is the result if it is adopted? 

It is an amendment of the main or original motion, and 
applies to that; if it is adopted it becomes an integral part 
of the main motion. 

96. To what does the second or secondary, amendment ap- 
ply, and which is voted on first? 

It is an amendment to the first or primary amendment, 
and if adopted becomes a part of it. The secondary amend- 
ment (the one last made) is voted on first, and then the 
primary amendment as amended. Shattuck 131; Cushing 67; 
Reed 96; Robert 177; Pox 58; Hollister 47. 

97. What is the rule in regard to debate on amendments and 
why is it necessarily elastic? 

Debate is restricted to the subject matter of the amend- 
ment, but sometimes this is so closely related to the main 
question that discussion of the amendment necessarily in- 
volves some discussion of the main question. 

98. What is the process of voting on an independent or main 
motion and one amendment? 

The vote is first taken on the amendment and if that is 
adopted the chair will say: "The question now falls upon 
the original motion as amended. The motion is as follows:" 
(Reads original motion as changed by the amendment.) 

99. Why are the amendments voted on first? 

Because the rule is that all the parts of a question must 
first be perfected then the question as a whole, made up of 
perfect parts, can be voted on. 

100. What is the process of voting on a motion and two 
amendments? 

The vote falls first (1) on the amendment last made 
(the secondary), then (2) upon the one first made (the pri- 
mary) as amended, and finally (3) upon the main motion as 



24 

amended. The secondary, if adopted, is brought down into 
and becomes an integral part of the primary amendment. 
The primary, thus amended, if adopted is brought down into 
and becomes a part of the original or main motion. The vote 
now falls on the main motion as perfected by the amendments 
that have, by adoption, become an integral part of it. 

NOTE. 

There is a difference of opinion as to how many votes 
are necessary in voting on a motion and two amendments. 
Robert, Reed, Cushing and Fox are silent as to the number 
required; Shattuck calls for three, and Hollister for four. 
Bethel and Neely agree with Hollister, while Lewis, Smith 
and Roberts agree with Shattuck. Upon analysis, there 
seems to be no good reason why more than three votes 
should be taken as described in the answer above. 

101. Two amendments having been made, when is another 
in order? 

After one of the two has been disposed of. There can 
only be three motions, or actions, on the floor at the same 
time, namely (1) The main or independent motion. (2) The 
first or primary amendment. (3) The secondary amendment. 
More than these are not allowed in ordinary practice. Shat- 
tuck 132; Reed 95, 96; Cushing 63. 

102. When the amendments are disposed of and only the 
original motion remains what principle applies to it? 

The principle is that the main or original question be- 
comes so changed by amendment as to be practically a new 
or different proposition and as such is subject to further 
amendment until it is satisfactory in form to the majority 
whereupon it is put to vote. Shattuck 132. (See question 
123.) 

103. If an amendment is adopted does that adopt the motion 
or resolution to which it is an amendment? 

No, the motion may be lost "as amended." 

104. What is "Accepting the amendment"? and when must 
allowing an amendment to be accepted be voted on? 

The mover of an independent motion may "accept" an 
amendment, that is, may agree that it shall become a part of 
her motion just as if it had been put to the vote, before the 
question is stated by the chair, but after that, only by gen- 
eral consent. If any one objects, allowing the mover to ac- 



25 

cept must be voted on. Accepting an amendment is the 
quickest way to dispose of it. Shattuck 138; Cushing 61; 
Reed 109; Hollister 48. 

105. Why may an amendment not be accepted without gen- 
eral consent after it is stated by the chair. 

Because any and every question is in the possession of 
the assembly after the chair has stated it. 

106. Should the chair ask the mover of the main motion if 
she will accept the amendment? 

The chair should not so embarrass the mover because 
acceptance is optional, and if the mover remains silent it is 
because the amendment is not satisfactory. 

107. Is it discourteous to refuse to accept an amendment? 
No; but, as it is the quickest way to dispose of it, it is 

well to accept it if it is acceptable. 

108. If the second amendment loses and the first carries 
what is the result? 

The main question with the first amendment, that is to 
say the main question as amended, remains. 

109. If the second amendment carries and the first loses, 
what is the result? 

Only the original motion is left. 

110. What is said of the use of the negative of a proposition 
as an amendment? 

It is not admissible and should be ruled out of order. 

111. Why is it not admissible? 

It is customary and parliamentary to take the affirma- 
tive opinion first. The use of the word "not" merely reverses 
the vote and causes confusion without changing the question. 
To allow its use would be contrary to parliamentary pro- 
cedure and good sense. Reed 117. 

112. What general rule in regard to amendment applies 
especially to technical motions? 

"Any motion may be amended that can be amended with- 
out changing it into a motion of a different kind." Shat- 
tuck 162. 

113. To what does amendment apply? 

To principle or main motions, reports, constitutions, by- 
laws, standing rules, filling of blanks, the motions to commit, 
to extend, limit or close debate, and questions of privilege. 



26 

114. What motions Cannot be Amended? 

The following are listed by a number of authorities: 
To Adjourn, Rise (in committee) or Take a Recess; Call for 
the Orders of the Day; Appeals and Points of Order; Objec- 
tion to Consideration of a Question; Reading of Papers, a 
Call for; Leave to Withdraw a Motion; To Suspend the 
Rules; To Lay on or Take from the Table; Call for the Pre* 
vious Question; Motion to Reconsider; Amendment of an 
Amendment or of a Substitute; To Postone Indefinitely. 
Robert 60, 8 (Table); Reed 145-147; Shattuck 162; Fox 93; 
Hollister 16. 

115. What is the rank of the motion to amend? 
It is fifth in rank of the Subsidiary Motions. 

116. To what motions does the motion to Amend yield and 
which does it precede? 

Yields to any Privileged, Incidental or Subsidiary Motion, 
except to Postpone Indefinitely, and takes precedence of 
nothing but the question which it is proposed to Amend and 
to Postpone Indefinitely. 

117. Are amendments debatable? 
Yes. 

118. Can an amendment be tabled, postponed or committed 
alone? 

No, an amendment cannot be separated from the motion 
it applies to, but these motions are in order while an amend- 
ment is pending and if adopted the whole question (main 
motion, amendments, etc.), is tabled, postponed or committed 
except that an amendment to the minutes may be tabled 
without carrying the minutes to the table and certain amend- 
ments may be committed, for verbal improvement, for exam- 
ple (this being only a temporary separation) but final action 
on the main question must be deferred until the committed 
amendment is reported back or restored, so to speak. (See 
Question 245, 251.) 

119. Can the Previous Question or a motion to Close Debate 
at a specified time be applied to either a primary or a sec- 
ondary amendment without affecting the main question? 

Yes, but they must be moved on the amendment: "I move 
the previous question on the amendment," etc. 

120. Can amendments be reconsidered and how? 

Yes, in their regular order, the one adopted last being 
first reconsidered. 



27 

121. Can a motion to amend be made after the affirmative 
vote on the main question has been taken? 

Yes, unless a special rule to the contrary has been adopt- 
ed or the voting is by yeas and nays. 

122. How may a defeated amendment be renewed? 

May be offered in a new form, so changed as to be prac- 
tically new. 

123. What principle opens a question to repeated amend- 
ment or to renewal? 

The principle of change: such alteration or modification 
as tends to make the question different or substantially new. 
This change may be in the question itself or in its status. 

124. When it is desired to offer an amendment which is not 
then in order what can be done? 

One may "give notice" that such or such an amendment 
will be offered at the proper time, and may at the same time 
speak against the pending amendment. 

125. Is a motion necessary for the correction (amendment) 
of numbers affixed to paragraphs, articles or sections of con- 
stitutions, etc.? 

No; the secretary is expected to make any obviously 
necessary corrections in such matters. Robert 68. 

126. What general rule applies to motions? 

The last motion stated by the chair is the only one under 
immediate consideration, and is always the first one to be 
voted on. Fox 58. 

127. What rights are undisputed in all modern assemblies? 
The right to originate and the right to amend. Reed 95. 
References— Nature and Effect of Amendment. Robert 

65, 176; Reed Chapter IX, 94; dishing Chapter IX, 54; Shat- 
tuck Chapter XI, 127; Hollister 46; Fox 58. 

Ways to Amend or Modify a Motion or Proposition. 

Substitute Amendment. 

"The rejection of a proposition is just as much the prog- 
ress of business as its acceptance. "No" just as properly ex- 
presses the will of an assembly as "Yes."— Reed. 



128. What are the several methods of amending a motion? 

(1) By inserting words; (2) By striking out words; 

(3) By striking out words and inserting other words in their 



2S 

place. Words inserted or stricken out must be consecutive. 
Shattuck 152; Reed 95; dishing 62; Hollister 47. 

129. What are some other ways of expressing the same 
method? 

Such terms as adding, eliminating, transposing, substi- 
tuting, etc., are also sometimes used, all of which are merely 
different ways of expressing some one of the above three 
forms. For example: substituting is striking out and insert- 
ing; transposing is striking out of one place and inserting 
in another. Crocker 48; Neely 50; Stevens 49; Fox 60; 
Waples 24; Robert 66; Smith 17; Roberts 14. 

130. What manner of words may be inserted? 
Any words relevant to the subject. 

131. What is the form for putting the motion to insert to 
^;ote? 

"You hear the motion to insert the words before 

(or after) the words so that the motion will read 

Are you ready for the question?" or, "It is moved to amend 
by inserting ," etc. 

132. What is the effect of a negative vote on a motion to 
Amend by inserting? Of an affirmative vote? 

If such a motion is negatived the same words, or a part 
of them, cannot afterwards be inserted, but the same words 
or a part of them, with others, may be — this being a different 
proposition. On an affirmative vote the words are inserted. 
Shattuck 146; Reed 97; Cushing 69. (See Question 123.) 

133. Once inserted, if it is desired to eliminate them how 
can it be done? 

The same words or part of them cannot be stricken out, 
but other words may be added to them and then the whole 
may be stricken out. 

134. How is the motion to Amend by striking out put to 
vote? 

''Shall the words .. be stricken out?" 

135. What is the effect of a negative vote on an amendment 
by striking out? Of an affirmative vote? 

On a negative vote the words stand and cannot after- 
wards be acted on unless combined with others. On an af- 
firmative vote the words are stricken out. Reed 99; Robert 
66; Shattuck 146, 156; Cushing 65. 



29 

136. When the motion is made to strike out and insert what 
must be the character of the words inserted? 

They must be relevant. 

137. What is the form used for this motion? 

"I move to amend by striking out the words and 

inserting the words " 

The Chair: "You have heard the motion to strike out 

the words and to insert the words in their 

place, the question is on agreeing to the amendment," or 

"Shall the words be stricken out and the words 

be inserted?" 

138. Can the motion to strike out and insert be divided? 

It is one motion and cannot be divided. Reed 101; Rob- 
ert 66 (also note) ; Shattuck 151. 

139. Although the motion to strike out and insert is one 
motion and cannot be divided how is it amended? 

In amending it is considered as two questions, the first 
part (the part to be stricken out) having precedence. Robert 
66 (note). 

140. What is the effect of an affirmative vote on a motion 
to strike out and insert? Of a negative vote? 

If decided in the affirmative the words stricken out, or a 
part of them, cannot be afterwards inserted, nor can the 
words inserted, or a part of them, be afterwards sticken out; 
but the same words, or a part of them, with others may be 
either inserted or stricken out. If the negative vote carries, 
the motion to strike out and insert cannot be made after- 
wards in the same form but must be so changed as to be 
practically new or different in order to be renewed. (See 
Question 123.) 

141. In what way can a second vote be secured on an amend- 
ment, or a motion, besides through a motion to reconsider? 

By moving to insert one, or more, new words before, or 
after, those already adopted and then (if the motion carries) 
moving to strike out all the words inserted by both amend- 
ments. Shattuck 144 (Illustration). 

142. What form should the chairman use in stating a mo- 
tion to Amend? 

The chair (1) repeats the words proposed; (2) indicates 
the place in the motion where they are proposed to be in- 
serted, or omitted; (3) reads the motion in the form in which 
it will stand if amended. 



30 

143. What general rule applies to a rejected motion to 
Amend by inserting, by striking out, or by striking out and 
inserting? 

The general rule is, that the same matter cannot be twice 
acted upon, and any amendment must so change the rejected 
motion as to make it a new, or different, proposition in mean- 
ing or scope. Mere verbal changes are not enough. Shattuck 

144, 147; Robert 67; Reed 97, 99, 101, 102; Cushing 66, 69. 
(See Question 123). 

144. To what is the amendment called a ''Substitute" equiv- 
alent and to what may it be applied? 

The motion to Substitute is practically a motion "to 
strike out and insert," although the treatment is different. 
It may be applied to whole paragraphs, sections, amend- 
ments or motions. The form is usually: "I move as a sub- 
stitute for the question (paragraph, etc.), as it now stands 
the following ," etc., or "I move to amend by substi- 
tuting ., ," etc. Reed 100-105; Shattuck 154; Robert 

67, 176. 

145. Under what rules can a whole new motion or parar 
graph be substituted for the original motion or paragraph? 

Under the general rule that while it may be entirely op- 
posite in meaning and have all the words changed, it must 
be on the same subject. 

Substitute Motion, Paragraph, or Amendment. 

146. Is a substitute motion debatable? 
Yes, if the main question is. 

147. What difference exists among parliamentarians as to 
the treatment of the substitute motion (resolution, amend- 
ment, section or paragraph) ? 

Some consider and treat it as an ordinary primary 
amendment, others as a semi-independent motion, or privi- 
leged primary amendment, for which the usual rules applying 
to amendments are appropriately modified. 

148. When treated as an ordinary primary amendment, can 
it be itself debated, amended, or divided and how is it voted 
on? 

In this case the usual rule holds good, namely, that there 
can be on the floor at the same time only three actions, as 
follows: (1) the main motion; (2) an amendment to that 
motion (primary); (3) an amendment to the amendment 



31 

(secondary.) Consequently, the substitute, which as an 
amendment to the main motion falls under the law govern- 
ing primary amendments, can only be offered when the floor 
is clear, that is, after any amendments that may have been 
made to the original motion have been disposed of and only 
the original motion as amended is left. The substitute then 
being offered can, like any other primary amendment, be 
debated, amended, or divided, until it is in satisfactory shape 
for the final vote. The only difference between it and an 
ordinary primary amendment under this method is that, if 
the substitute carries, it takes the place of the original mo- 
tion and becomes and is the main question instead of being 
combined with and becoming an integral part of it. The 
usual two votes are taken, the first is upon the substitute, 
considered as an amendment, the second is upon it as the 
main motion as amended. Shattuck 154-155; Fox 60; Robert 
66, 176. 

149. If treated as a semi-independent motion, or privileged 
primary amendment, how many actions are allowed on the 
floor at the same time? 

In addition to the usual three actions, two more are al- 
lowed, making five in all. (1) The original, or main, motion; 
(2) an amendment to that motion; (3) an amendment to the 
primary amendment; (4) The substitute; (5) An amendment 
to the substitute. The above method which involves five ac- 
tions is the one preferred by the writer, it is the one in use 
in the House of Representatives and is sanctioned by War- 
rington 67; Waples 37; Neely 84; Hollister 49; Cushing 73 
(substitute paragraph); Reed 103, 105; House Manual and 
Digest 349, Rule XIX, P. 804. 

150. In this case what is done to both the original ques- 
tion and the substitute before a choice is made between 
them? 

Each is perfected by amendment until its form is satis- 
factory to its friends. There is no limit to the number of 



22 

amendments that may be offered to either the original or to 
the substitute but the substitute is allowed only one amend- 
ment at the one time. The original motion may have the 
usual two amendments at one and the same time. The first 
to receive consideration is the original motion and when all 
the amendments offered to it have been disposed of and only 
the perfected motion remains it is not yet voted on as amend- 
ed but is left, suspended, until the substitute also is perfected. 
A choice is then made between the two perfected motions, or 
paragraphs: The substitute is the first to be voted on. It 
it loses, the vote falls on the original motion as amended. 
If the substitute carries, a vote on the original is unneces- 
sary, the substitute takes the place of and becomes the main 
motion or question and as such is now subject to further 
amendment. 

151. What motions applied to a substitute apply also to the 
main question? 

To Lay on the Table, to Postpone Definitely, to Commit, 
the Previous Question and a motion to Close Debate at a 
specified time, unless the last two are limited to the substi- 
tute by the mover. 

152. Is the motion to Postpone Indefinitely in order while 
a substitute motion is pending? 

No, it is an inferior motion and cannot be made while 
any amendatory motion is pending. 

153. How does amendment by substitution apply to the 

motion to Commit? 

Can be amended by substituting one committee for an- 
other. 

References — Ways to Amend a Proposition: Robert 65, 
176; Reed Chapter IX, 95; Cushing Chapter IX; Shattuck 
Chapter XII, 142; Hollister 47; Fox 60. 

Filling Blanks, or Sums, Times and Names. 

154. In amending a motion containing a name, or a sum, or 



33 

in which a time is specified, or in which blank spaces are 
left to be filled, what is the method of procedure? 

While of the nature of amendment, sums, times and 
names are treated differently insofar as the number allowed 
on the floor at the same time is concerned. Whether the 
motion, resolution or report, is presented with blanks or not, 
blanks are supposed to exist, and suggestions are received 
for filling them, each member being privileged to suggest one 
sum, or time or name until all have made suggestions who 
wish to do so. These are all "in nomination," so to speak, at 
the same time. In Jefferson's Manual these are considered 
to be "alternative or successive originals. ,, 

155. If sums are under consideration, which sum is first 
voted on? 

The general rule is that sums are voted on one at a time, 
beginning with the largest, until a choice is made, and this 
is recognized as the best method when appropriations are un- 
dei consideration, but if the sale of property is in question 
it is better to begin with the smallest amount mentioned. 

156. When an hour, a day, or a specified time is the ques- 
tion, how proceed? 

Begin with the longest time. 



34 
157. How are names voted on? 

In the order nominated, beginning with the one men- 
tioned in the original motion, resolution or report. The vote 
is by voice unless a special rule or an immediate motion and 
vote calls for some other form. 

15S. In each case, whether sums, times or names are under 
consideration what is done after the blanks are filled? 

The motion, as amended, is voted on as usual. 

References — Filling Blanks. Robert 68; Reed 111; Crush- 
ing 57; Shattuck 158; Hollister 50; Fox 69. 



Amendment Chart. 

The three actions usually allowed in connection with an 
Independent Motion are as follows: 



1 


MAIN 
MOTION 


Introduces business 

may be made when 

no other motion has 

the floor 


Voted on as 
amended 3rd — 
the Final Vote 


2 


PRIMARY 
AMENDMENT 


Is an amendment to 

the main motion and 

if carried becomes 

a part of it 


Voted on as 
amended 2nd 


3 


SECONDARY 
AMENDMENT 


Is an amendment to 
the first or primary 
amendment and if 
carried becomes a 
part of it 


• 

Voted on 
Is! 



The vote falls (1) on the amendment last made (the sec- 
ondary), then (2) on the primary, as amended, and (3) and 
last, on the main motion as amended. (See Questions 94-102, 
Lesson TI.) 



The Substitute Motion. 
The substitute motion if treated as a semi-independent 
motion or a privileged primary amendment, allows five ac- 
tions instead of the usual three on the floor at the same 
time, as follows: 



1 


MAIN 
MOTION 


Vote 
falls on 
this 5th 


The first vote is taken on the 
secondary amendment to the 
main motion and then on the 
primary as usual, after which 
the main motion is left sus- 
pended until the substitute is 
prefected, therefore the 3rd 
vote fails on the amendment 
to the substitute, the 4th on 
the substitute as amended 
and if that is lost, the 5th vote 
is taken and falls on the Main 
Motion as amended. If the 
substitute is adopted on the 
4th vote the 5th vote is of 
course unnecessary. 


2 


PRIMARY 
AMENDMENT 
(to main motion) 


2nd 


3 


SECONDARY 
AMENDMENT 
(to the primary) 


lsl 


(148 Lesson II) 

If the substitute motion is 
treated as an amendment it 
can only be made when the 
floor is clear of other amend- 
ments. It is then treated like 
any other amendment except 
that, if it is adopted, it takes 
the place of the original mo- 
tion instead of becoming a 
part of it and must be voted 
on a second time, 13t as an 
amendment and 2nd as the 
main motion as amended. 
(See questions 144-150, Les- 
son II.) 


4 


SUBSTITUTE 
MOTION 


4th 


5 


AMENDMENT 

TO THE 
SUBSTITUTE 


3rd 



DRILL, 

A. Practice the forms of all the motions included in the 
lesson until familiar with them. 

B. Offer a motion and amend it. 

C. Amend the amendment. 

D. Offer a substitute and amend it, etc. 

NOTE. 
As the motion to amend is more frequently used than 
any other this lesson, including the chart and the forms, etc., 
should be carefully studied. 



LESSON 111. 

Debate and Decorum in Debate; Motions: On Which Full De- 
bate is Allowed; On Which Debate is Limited; That 
Cannot Be Debated; The Previous Question or The Clos- 
ing of Debate. 

"Come as near your opponent as you can in all your 
propositions, and yield to him as much as you dare in a con- 
sistence with truth and justice." — Isaac Watts. 



159. What is Debate? 

Debate, properly speaking is discussion of a formal motion. 
It presupposes remarks on both sides — for and against — but 
in practice it has come to mean anything that may be said 
on a given subject. 

160. What is its object and what should be its character? 
Its purpose is to bring about unity of opinion and action 

by such a comparison of views and facts as will enable a ma- 
jority of those persons taking part to form a correct judg- 
ment. In character it should be relevant and dignified, an 
appeal to reason and right feeling and not to sentimentality 
or passion. 

161. What is informal discussion? 

Discussion of a question without a formal motion or be- 
fore the formal motion has been stated by the chair; desul- 
tory talk. 

162. When and how may it be allowed, and is it ever useful? 
When time permits it may be allowed before formal de- 
bate is in order. While it does not decide anything, it is often 
useful in helping to crystalize opinion. Shattuck 53; Robert 
29-30; Reed 162. 

163. Is it in order for a member who rises to make a motion 
to preface the motion with remarks? 

No, and the member may be called down at once and re- 
quested to make the motion; but such informal introductory 
remarks are usually permitted both on the part of the maker 
and the seconder of a motion. 



37 

164. When is debate in order, and when does it cease? 

Is in order after a formal motion has been stated by the 
chair. Usually ceases after the vote is called for. 

165. Can the chair close debate? 

No, can only suggest that it be closed by asking: "Are 
you ready for the question?" and should avoid doing that in 
such a way as to hasten action, except in extreme cases. 

166. Can it be resumed after the vote is called for or is part- 
ly taken? 

Is in order even after the affirmative vote has been 
taken unless the vote is by yeas and nays (roll call), or there 
is a rule to the contrary. Hollister 38; Robert 111; Reed 163; 
Cushing 133. 

167. What privilege has a member in this connection? 

If absent from the room when the question was put and 
the vote partly taken, may reopen debate by rising and 
speaking to the subject or making an amendment or other 
motion in relation to it. 

168. What is the distinction between "Informal Discussion" 
and discussion following a motion "to Proceed to Informal 
Consideration?" 

Informal Discussion is that allowed by the chair without 
any motion. "To proceed to Informal Consideration" is a 
formal motion which if carried results practically in making- 
a committee of the assembly for the purpose of considering 
a question informally as in committee. It differs from the 
motion "to go into committee of the whole" in that the regu- 
lar chairman, if the the motion carries, does not leave the 
chair as in "committee of the whole," but continues to pre- 
side during the informal consideration. 

169. What is often allowed even when a motion before the 
assembly is nndebatable? 

To ask a question or make a suggestion is not debating 
and is allowed to a limited extent when debate would be out 
of order. Robert 102-103. 

170. What is usually done in formal debate and for special 
occasions? 

The number and the length of the speeches is usually 
limited and the leaders are allowed to open and to close de- 
bate. Shattuck 71-72; Robert 99-100; Reed 159; Cushing 
116-118. 



38 

171. What is the common law and what the best general 
practice? 

Parliamentary law has established no rules regulating 
the number and length of speeches in debate but permits all 
to speak as often as the floor can be obtained and until 
stopped by some action of the assembly, and this is the best 
general practice because full consideration of a question be- 
fore taking action upon it is always desirable. Certain 
simple rules, however, are so generally used that not to ob- 
serve them is "unparliamentary." 

172. What are the simple rules that are in general use? 

No one to speak twice on the same question at the same 
stage of its development until all have spoken who wish, ex- 
cept that the maker of a motion is usually allowed to open 
and close the discussion. If a change in the status of the 
question occm^s, a member who has just spoken may speak 
on the "new" question. (See Question 157, Lesson I.). 

173. After stating the question, what is the best form for 
the chairman to use to invite discussion? 

Some chairmen ask, "Are you ready for the question?" as 
soon as they have stated the motion and some of the best 
parliamentarians sanction this proceeding, but although "Are 
you ready," etc., only means "Do you wish to discuss the 
question or will you vote on it now?" since the same question 
is used to suggest closing debate it would seem that to invite 
debate by saying, immediately after stating a motion, "The 
question is before you for discussion," or, "Are there any re- 
marks?" would be less likely to be misunderstood. 

174. Where no special rules have been adopted, if it is nec- 
essary to limit the time to be given to debate what can be 
done? 

Some one may move that the time of each speaker be 
limited to three, five or ten minutes, or that debate be closed 
at a specified time. A motion may also be made to limit the 
number as well as the length of the speeches. These are par- 
liamentaray motions and are spoken of as "Orders." An as- 
sociation may adopt such special rules governing debate as 
seem best suited to its needs. 

175. When a time limit has been adopted by special rule or 
by immediate vote, how may a speaker's time be extended? 



39 

On motion, by a two-thirds vote. A two-thirds vote is 
required because a rule must be suspended in order to ex- 
tend the time. Robert 117. 

176. Why it is considered best for a presiding officer not 
to take part in debate? 

Because the position requires an impartial attitude and 
debate usually means "taking sides" for or against. 

177. After the floor has been assigned to a speaker what are 
the only questions that are privileged and permit a member 
to interrupt him? 

A Question or Point of Order; Objection to Considera- 
tion; To have entered on the minutes a Motion to Reconsid- 
er; A call for the Orders of the Day; A Question of Privilege 
requiring immediate attention. Robert 28. 

178. What is speaking "to the motion," and what is always 
out of order? 

Speaking "to the motion" is keeping strictly on the sub- 
ject, and speaking "off the motion," that is, bringing in mat- 
ter outside of or foreign to the subject, is always out of order. 

179. What is "yielding the floor," what is its effect, and is it 
discourteous to refuse to yield? 

A member, having the floor, allowing interruptions is 
said to "yield the floor," and the effect of such action, accord- 
ing to the rule is, that one who yields the floor voluntarily 
loses the right to it; one who yields of necessity retains the 
right to resume after the interruption. It is not discourteous 
to refuse. 

180. What is "contesting the floor," and who decides be- 
tween the contestants? 

Two or more members claiming to have risen first to 
speak are said to be "contesting the floor." The chair de- 
cides which one is entitled to it. 
181 Whom should the chair recognize? 

The one she saw or heard first; if in doubt can ask the 
assembly to decide. If two or more members rise simul- 
taneously at any time the chair should give the preference 
to the member whose motion is under consideration if she 
has not spoken before, or to the one who seldom claims the 
privilege of the floor, or, if possible, to one whose views are 
opposed to those of the last speaker. 

182. If the decision of the chair is thought to be inconsis- 
tent with the rules what can be done? 



40 

It may be made "a point of order." (See Question 469, 
Lesson VII.) 

183. What manner of conduct on the part of members is es- 
sential in debate? 

The observance of parliamentary rules as well as those 
governing polite society. 

184. What are violations of courtesy and of rules of order 
called? 

"Breaches of Decorum," or of order. 

185. Has a member the right to call attention to parliamen- 
tary errors and to breaches of decorum? And if himself ac- 
cused of the same, what is his right? 

Yes. The chair decides the point of order and the mem- 
ber may appeal from the decision of the chair. (See Rights 
and Duties of Members, Lesson XL) 

186. If the assembly is inattentive or guilty of indecorum, 
what is the duty of the presiding officer? How should she 
proceed? 

Duty to use every effort to control the meeting as a 
whole. Should proceed by appealing to the good sense of the 
members, calling to order, by name, any member who per- 
sists in creating disorder and by asking the whole body to 
uphold the chair, 

187. When a complaint of this kind is made by the chair to 
the assembly, what is this action called? 

The chair is said "to name" the offending member. 

188. When is the chair excusable for permitting disorder? 
Only after having tried every means to prevent it. 

189. What is the rule in regard to language that may be of- 
fensive to a member or to the body and what is excluded in 
debate besides offensive language? 

Objectionable words, if called attention to, should be 
noted by the secretary when made and the member be called 
upon to explain, retract or apologize. Besides offensive lan- 
guage personalities are "out of order." Reed 164; Robert 
105; Shattuck 228; Fox 99. 

190. Should a member who rises while another is speaking 
and remains standing as if to claim the floor be recognized? 

Not in preference to one who rises immediately after the 
speaker yields the floor. Rising before the speaker has 
finished does not give the right to the floor and is not in 
good taste. 



41 

191. Whom does a speaker address and how? 

Any one who rises to make a motion or to debate, etc., 
always addresses the chair, using the title belonging to the 
office held by the chair and speaking always with respect. 

192. The right of an assembly to discuss a question at its 
pleasure being generally recognized, why is debate limited 
or prohibited on some motions? 

Debate is limited upon certain technical motions either 
because they tend to interfere with the right of the assembly 
to consider the main motion at its pleasure, (and limited to 
just the extent that they do interfere), or because discussion 
of these questions does not advance the actual business of 
the assembly. Debate is prohibited upon such highly privi- 
leged questions as could be used to prolong discussion and 
prevent coming to a vote on the main question. For the 
above reasons it is a general principle that high privilege is 
incompatible with debate. Robert 103 (note a) ; Fox 102. 

193. What is meant by "Limited Debate?" 

It means that debate is to be confined strictly to the par- 
ticular motion upon which limited debate only is allowed. 
For example, if a motion is made to postpone consideration 
of a main question to a specified time, the motion to post- 
pone must be discussed without touching upon the merits of 
the main motion or any amendments that may have been of- 
fered to it. Why, or why not, it should be postponed is the 
subject for debate. 

194. What is meant by "full debate?" 

It means that the motions upon which it is allowed bring 
into the debate the main motion and its amendments as well 
as the motion which opens to full debate. 

Motions Upon Which Full Debate Is Allowed. 

All Main Questions with few exceptions; To Reconsider 
the vote on a debatable question; To Postpone Indefinitely; 
To Commit or Refer; To Rescind. 

Limited Debate Allowed. 

To Amend; To Postpone Definitely; A Point of Order; 
A Question of Privilege; An ApDeal. 



42 
Cannot Be Debated. 

To Fix the Time to Which to Adjourn (when privileged) ; 
To Adjourn (when unqualified) ; A Call for the Orders of the 
Day; Questions relating to the Priority of Business; An Ap- 
peal (when it relates simply to indecorum or to a transgres- 
sion of the rules of speaking or to the Priority of Business 
or if made while the Previous Question is pending) ; Objec- 
tion to Consideration; To Lay on or Take from the Table; 
A Call for the Previous Question (if the original question was 
undebatable) ; To Reconsider (if the original question is 
undebatable) ; Questions relating to the Reading of Papers; 
Withdrawal of a Motion; Suspension of a Rule; Motions to 
Extend. Limit or Close Debate; Leave to Continue Speaking 
after Indecorum in Debate. 

To this list of Robert's (101, 102) Mrs. Hollister adds: 
(16) To Take a Recess; To Call for a Division of the Houses 
To make a Special Order; Taking the Yeas and Nays, and 
Mrs. Fox adds (94): To Receive a Report; Division of a Ques- 
tion; Leave to Speak Out of Order; To Consider a Question 
Out of its Proper Order; A Point of Order; To Close Nomi- 
nations; To Go Into Executive Session. In general it may 
be said that no question that is incidental in its nature or 
that arises while an undebatable motion is pending is itself 
debatable. 

References — Debate and Decorum in Debate. Robert 
Article V, 98; Reed Chapter XIII, 155; Cushing Chapter XII, 
108; Shattuck Chapter VII, 67; Hollister 37, 39; Fox Chap- 
ter VI, 97. 

The Previous Question, or the Closing of Debate. 

195. What is meant by the Previous Question and what is its 
use? 

The term "Previous Question" is a technicality derived 
from the practice of the British Parliament and the motion 
is, with that body, and was for a long time in this country, a 
motion to suppress the main question for the day by securing 
a negative vote on the call for the previous question. With 
deliberative bodies in the United States now it is a motion 
to close debate and come to a final vote on the Main Ques- 
tion or the one upon which it is ordered. In small gatherings 
it should be sparingly used because as a rule debate should 



43 

be encouraged rather than discouraged. Under no circum- 
stances should the motion be allowed until after a fair 
amount of discussion has taken place. 

196. What are the forms in common use for making and put- 
ting this motion? 

"Madam Chairman, I move (or call for) the previous 
question" is the customary form for making. The form in 
general use by the chair for putting it to vote is, "The previ- 
ous question is ordered (or a call for the previous question is 
made), shall the main question be now put? All in favor 
rise, stand and be counted." Some parliamentarians recom- 
mend the following as a simpler form for putting the ques- 
tion: "The previous question is moved. Shall the debate be 
closed and the vote be taken?" etc. 

197. To what can the Previous Question be applied? 

It is seldom used except to close debate on a main ques- 
tion, but it can be orderd on any debatable motion because 
its only purpose is to put an end to debate. It may be ordered 
on the motions: to Reconsider, to Commit, to Postpone to a 
Time Certain, to Postpone Indefinitely, Amendments, and an 
Appeal if the Appeal is debatable. 

198. What must the mover do in order to limit the applica- 
tion of the Previous Question? 

Must state definitely to what it is desired to limit it, as 
for example, "I move the previous question on the motion 
to commit." This qualifies the Previous Question and limits 
its effect to the motion to Commit leaving the main question, 
etc., untouched. Shattuck 93; Reed 202; Hollister 53 (c). 

199. if unqualified to what does it apply? 

Unless limited to some other motion it applies to the 
main question and such pending motions as "adhere" to it 
(are (are necessarily a part of and not to be separated from 
it). 

200. What will be the effect? 

If decided in the affirmative it stops debate and brings 
the main question and its "adhering" motions to an imme- 
diate vote. If defeated, debate is resumed as if the Previous 
Question had not been made. Shattuck 85, 97; dishing 48; 
Reed 90. 



44 



201. What motions adhere and are not cut off if pending 
when the Previous Question (unqualified) is called for? 

Only amendments (including a substitute motion) ad- 
here and are a part of the main question. If the Previous 
Question is called for while they are pending, the amend- 
ments are first put to vote and then the main question as 
amended, as is usual in voting on a main question and one 
or more amendments. Reed 90, 201; Shattuck 82. 

202. What motions, if pending, do not adhere and are cut 
off by an affirmative vote on a call for the Previous Question 
unlimited? 

If the Previous Question is ordered the motions to Post- 
pone, to Commit and to Postpone Indefinitely are cut off 
just as if they had never been made and the vote is im- 
mediately taken on the main question. 

203. If amendments adhere and are not cut off by the Pre- 
vious Question why can the Previous Question be limited in 
its application to an amendment (or amendments) without 
affecting the main question? 

Because this action does not separate the amendment 
from the main question; it merely closes debate upon the 
amendment and brings it to an immediate vote. After the 
amendment is disposed of the main question is again open to 
debate and further amendment as usual. 

204. To w r hat class of motions does the Previous Question 
belong and what vote is required to carry it? 

It is a Subsidiary or Secondary motion and is second 
in the order of precedence among the subsidiaries. A ma- 
jority of the authorities agree that a two-thirds vote is the 
rule or ought to be. 

205. When a two-thirds vote is required who usually counts 
the votes? 

The secretary. 

206. After the Previous Question is stated what motion* 
are in order? 

The Previous Question yields to Privileged and Inci- 
dental Questions and to the Subsidiary motion of higher 
rank, to Lay on the Table. It takes precedence of every 
debatable motion. Therefore, after the Previous Question 
has been stated, no motions of inferior rank and no de- 
batable motions can be entertained, but any undebatable 



45 

motion of higher rank or one that is urgent or necessary in 
its nature is in order. The following list covers all the 
motions that are likely to he made under the above condi- 
tions: A Question of Privilege; a Point of Order (provided it 
relates to the call for the Previous Question) ; a motion te 
Adjourn; a motion to Lay on the Table or to Reconsider; 
an Appeal (but this is undebatable if made while the Pre- 
vious Question is pending) ; any motion relating to the verbal 
perfecting of the main question or the manner of taking a 
vote upon it. All to be decided without debate. Shattuck 
91; Hollister 54; Robert 55; Fox 63, 

207. Can the Previous Question be debated? 
No. 

207. Can the vote on it be reconsidered or can the motion 
be renewed if defeated? 

It can be reconsidered unless partly executed (voting 
under it has begun), and if lost it may be renewed after 
a change in its status or position. 

209. "What Subsidiary motions can be applied to it? 

None, but the motion to Lay on the Table being superior 
in rank is in order while the Previous Question is pending 
and carries it to the table with the question upon which 
it was ordered and all pending motions relating to that ques- 
tion. Robert 53, 56; Reed 122; Shattuck (table xvi.) 

210. If a motion is tabled while under the order of the Pre- 
vious Question what is the effect? 

It comes from the table still under the order of the Pre- 
vious Question and must be decided without debate. 

211. Must the calling out of "Question, question!" by mem- 
bers while seated be regarded by the chair? 

No, this is not a formal motion and need not be so re- 
garded but may be looked upon as a suggestion by the chair 
who will then ask, "Are you ready for the question?" Shat- 
tuck 94; Robert, Reed and dishing do not recognize such 
a call. 

212. What privilege has a member who reports a measure 
from a Committee? 

The right to close debate even after the previous ques- 
tion has been ordered. Robert 99; Fox 101. 



46 

213. Can a member who wishes to offer a resolution but 
does not wish it to be debated offer it and move the Previous 
Question on it at the same time? 

Yes. 

214. Where is the Previous Question not allowed? 

Cannot be made in Committee of the Whole, and is really 
out of place in any committee. 

215. Upon what fundamental principle is a two-thirds vote 
required to carry the Previous Question? 

Upon the fundamental principle of the right of an as- 
sembly to debate until all members who desire have expressed 
their views and until satisfied that proper consideration 
has been given the question. In accordance with this prin- 
ciple any motion that tends to restrict or to remove this 
right, must be carried by a larger vote than is usual in 
other matters. So highly is this right of debate esteemed 
that some assemblies, besides the two-thirds vote, require 
that the call for the Previous Question shall have not only one, 
but two or more seconds. 

216. What points are to be considered in regard to this 
motion? 

First; that it is simply a motion to stop debating and 
proceed to voting; Second, that two votes are taken, the 
vote upoii the call for the Previous Question and, if that 
prevails, the vote upon the question on which it was ordered 
or to which it properly applies, the two votes to follow each 
other immediately, without further debate. Shattuck 87; 
Reed 90. 

NOTE. 

There is a decided difference of opinion among 
parliamentarians as to the application and effect of the 
Previous Question. According to a number of those con- 
sulted a Call for the Previous Question if unqualified means 
simply: "Snail the Main Question be put to the vote now, 
at once, without further discussion?" In effect, under this 
construction, the Previous Question applies to the Main Mo- 
tion and its adhering, inseparable Amendments and tn them 
only, unless definitely ordered upon some other motion. If 
it carries it cuts off (renders void) all pending inferior mo- 



47 

tions except amendments and prevents others being made. 
S'hattuck 92, 97; Reed 90, 201, 202. 

Acording to others, "Shall the Main Question be now 
put?" means: Shall the pending question (the cue last 
made whether it be the Main Question or a Privileged or 
Dependent motion) be now put?" In effect, under this con- 
struction, the Previous Question, unqualified, applies only to 
the last motion on the floor, after which its effect is ex- 
hausted unless either or both of the motions to Amend or 
Commit are pending. If either or both of these motions are 
pending the Previous Question, unlimited, applies to them 
and also to the question to be amended or committed as 
if, taken together, they were all but one motion. Except in 
these instances if, after the effect of the Previous Question 
is exhausted, it is desired to reach the Main Question and 
close debate on it, or any other motion left pending, the Call 
for the Previous Question must be repeated. Under this 
construction pending inferior motions are not cut off but 
are forced to a vote and others are prevented from being 
made. Robert 8 (8), 55 (note); Hollister 53, 68 (m). 

NOTE. 

Reed expresses the opinion that in general parliamentary 
law the Previous Question is of equal value with the mo- 
tions to Postpone Definitely, to Postpone Indefinitely and 
to Commit, and that it cannot be ordered while they are 
pending unless by the adoption of the order of precedence 
of Subsidiary Motions in use in the House of Representa- 
tives. He recommends this order for all legislative and 
other large assemblies. This is the order of precedence 
adopted and taught by a number of excellent authorities 
and used in these lessons. It seems to the present writer 
to be the most logical and practical order for all assemblies. 

The application and effect of the Previous Question 
under the rule of this order of precedence is described in 
the first paragraph of the above note by Reed, pages 101, 
102 and by Mrs. Shattuck, pages 92, 97. See Question 228, 
Lesson IV, for the order of precedence of Subsidiary Mo- 
tions and the Note following Question 524, Lesson VIII, for 
further remarks on the effect of the Previous Question. 



48 

217. What other motion to close debate can be made and 

when? 

A motion to Close Debate at a stated time. This is the 
same as any independent motion except that it may be 
made while a member has the floor. 
21 S. What is the form for this motion? 

"I move that debate upon this question be closed at 
eleven o'clock." 

219. By what other motions can debate be prevented? 

By raising the Question of Consideration and by Laying 
on the Table. 

References: Robert 55, 102, 179; Reed 87, 200; Cushing 
46, 95, 117, 157; Shattuck, Chapt. VIII, 84; Hollister 53; 
Fox 62. 

DRILL, 

A. Practice forms. 

B. Offer motion and debate it formally. Amend it and 
debate the amendment. 

C. Move that debate be limited, then extended, then 
closed at a certain time., etc. 

D. Move the Previous Question on a motion, under de- 
bate; on a motion and an amendment, under debate, etc. 



LESSON IV. 

Subsidiary or Dependent Motions; The Motions; To Lay on 
the Table; To Take from the Table, To Postpone Defi- 
nitely, To Postpone Indefinitely; Motions that Cannot 
be Tabled. 

"So work the honey bees, 
Creatures that by a rule in nature teach 
The act of order to a peopled kingdom." 

— Henry V. 



220. What is the difference between Main and Subsidiary 
Motions? 

A Main, or Principle Motion is independent, that is, it 
is unrelated to and does not depend upon any other. A 
Subsidiary Motion is any one of a number of technical mo- 
tions which exist because of some other and are therefore 
dependent upon or related to that other. 

221. What is the function of the Main Motion? 

It introduces business by setting forth in the shape of 
a formal proposition a plan of action or a course of procedure 
for the consideration of the assembly. After it has been 
properly made (and seconded, if seconding is required), 
and stated, it becomes the "Main Question" or subject for 
discussion and action. Robert 32; Reed 140; Cushing 35; 
Shattuck 53; Fox 56; Hollister 41. 

222. What is the function of the Subsidiary Motion? 

It is a "tool" motion, that is: a motion used to either 
modify the main motion or to dispose of it in the most 
satisfactory and appropriate manner. Business is intro- 
duced by the Main Motion and progresses by means of the 
Subsidiary Motions. 

223. When may either be made? 

The Main or Independent Motion may be made at any 
time if no other motion is pending. A Subsidiary or De- 
pendent Motions made while another is pending and is 
necessarily acted on before the one to which it relates. 

224. What names are applied to the Subsidiary Motions? 



50 

Subsidiary, Secondary or Dependent Motions. They are 
also referred to in some manuals as Preferred or Privileged 
Motions but the term "privileged" being also applied to 
another class of motions any one of the other names is to 
be preferred. Subsidiary is the name in general use. 

225. How many Subsidary or Secondary motions are in 
constant use and what are they? 

More authorities agree upon the following six as Sub- 
sidiary than upon any other group classification: To Lay 
on the Table, To Call for the Previous Question, To Post- 
pone to a Definite Time, To Commit (refer to a committee) 
or Recommit, To Amend, To Postpone Indefinitely. Robert 
34; Cushing 93; Hollister 44; Agreeing with these: Smith, 
(Chart); Neeley 78; Bethel 8. 

226. What is meant by one motion "having precedence" 
of another or "yielding to" another? 

These terms refer to the standing of motions in relation 
to each other and to the main motion. The general rule 
is: that motions are to be considered and acted on in the 
order made, the one first made being first considered, but 
in parliamentary law experience and custom have established 
a more or less fixed order of precedence as best for the 
fair, orderly and speedy transaction of business. Shattuck 
177. 

227. What is the rank, or prescribed order of precedence 
of the Subsidiary or Secondary motions? 

They are of higher rank than and take precedence of 
all Main, or Principle Motions, but are of lower rank than 
and yield to Privileged and Incidental Motions. They also 
have a prescribed order or rank in relation to each other. 

228. What is the prescribed order, or rank, of the Sub- 
sidiary motions in relation to each other? 

As follows; number one being first and highest in the 
order of precedence: (1). To Lay on the Table. (2). The 
Call for the Previous Question. (3). To Postpone to a 
Definite Time. (4). To Commit (or Refer or Recommit). 
(5). To Amend. (6). To Postpone Indefinitely. Robert 
34; Shattuck 170; Hollister 44; Warrington 28; Neeley 78; 
Smith (Chart); Bethel 8; Waples 8. House Manual and 
Digest 331. Rule XVI, Par. 765. 



51 

NOTE. 

The above motions are classified by Robert, Neeley, 
Smith, Hollister, Cushing, Bethel, Waples, Cooley as Sub- 
sidiary or Secondary Motions. Although named differently 
by others, as Dependent, Privileged or Preferred, etc., they 
are grouped together as belonging in the same category by 
all the authorities mentioned below. Each one of these au- 
thorities, however, adds one or more to the group or else 
omits one or more as follows: Shattuck, Jefferson and War- 
rington adds, To Adjourn; Reed adds, The Question of Con- 
sideration; Fish adds, A Point of Order and Appeals; Lewis 
and Paul add, An Amendment to an Amendment; Roberts 
adds, To Limit or Close Debate, To Extend the Limits of 
Debate; Stevens adds, To Divide a Question and an Amend- 
ment to an Amendment; Waples. adds, Objection to Con- 
sideration, An Amendment to an Amendment and Primary 
and Secondary Amendment to each of the motions To Com- 
mit and to Amend. Crocker omits, the Previous Question, 
and includes a Motion Compelled by Necessity, To Adjourn 
or to take a recess and any motion to Determine the Man- 
ner of Consideration; Pox omits to Postpone Indefinitely and 
includes an Amendment to an Amendment. The motions 
omitted by some and included by others are classified as 
Privileged, or incidental by other parliamentarians. 

229. For what purposes are the Subsidiary Motions used? 
Two of them: To Lay on the Table and to Postpone, are 

used to delay, or prevent hasty action; the Previous Ques- 
tion, to hasten action and bring to an immediate vite; to 
Commit and to Amend, when a question is to be perfected 
or changed, and to Postpone Definitely serves the purpose 
of suppressing or finally disposing of a question. Robert 
175; Shattuck 176; Cushing 43. 

230. Which is the most important and most used? 
To amend. 

231. Which have already been considered? 

To Amend, in Lesson II., and the Previous Question, in 
Lesson III. 

232. To what do Subsidiary Motions usually apply? 
To Independent, or Main Motions. 

233. What is the general rule in regard to Subsidiary 
Motions? 



52 

That they cannot be applied to each other. — Robert 34; 
dishing 93. 

234. Are there any exceptions to this rule? 

Yes; the motions to Postpone, to Commit and to Amend 
the main motion may be amended and the Previous Ques- 
tion may be applied to the motions to Postpone Definitely 
or Indefinitely, to Commit and to Amend. 

235. Can a motion be made while one of superior rank, 
one that "precedes" it, is pending? 

No, it is not in order at such a time. It is superceded 
or crowded out by the one of higher rank — is said to "yield 
to it," — and the chair must say, "The motion to (stating mo- 
tion offered) cannot be now entertained"; or "is not in order 
at this time." 

236. Can a motion be made while one of inferior rank, one 
that "yields" to it, is pending? 

Yes, and it must be considered and disposed of first. 

237. What becomes of a motion which was pending when 
one of superior rank, one having "precedence" over it, is 
made? 

It is merely suspended until the one of higher rank is 
disposed of. It then has the floor again unless it has been 
made void by the superior motion. — Robert 34; Cushing 93; 
Shattuck 172. 

238. If one of these Subsidiary Motions has been made once 
and lost, can it be made again (renewed) while the same 
main question is pending? 

The rule is: That progress in business or debate which 
has so changed the question before the meeting as to make 
it different or practically new makes the renewal of any 
Privileged, Incidental or Subsidiary Motion permissible, 
EXCEPT a Call for the Orders of the Day or for the Sus- 
pension of the Rules, or an Amendment. — Robert 72, 186 
(also note); Shattuck 176, 180 (See Question 123, Lesson II, 
and Question 398, Lesson V.). 

239. Besides the Independent or Main Motion and the De- 
pendent or Subsidiary Motions, what other motions that are 
in general use have been classified and enumerated by par- 
liamentarians? 

Privileged and Incidental Motions, or Questions, which 
have precedence over all Independent and Subsidiary Mo- 



53 

tions, and a few which are known as miscellaneous. — Robert 
34, 35, 71; Cushing 80-86; Reed 142; Hollister 44; Fox 65-82. 
References — Subsidiary Motions. Robert 33; Shattuck 170; 
Reed 119, 140, 196; Cushing 93, 100; Hollister 44; Fox 65. 

To Lay on the Table. 

240. What is the form for making the motion to Lay on 
the Table? 

"I move to lay the question (stating it) on the table," 
or "I move the question be laid on the table." 

241. What is the real object of this motion, and what an 
illegitimate and too frequent use of it? 

Its real object is to postpone consideration in such a 
way that the subject may be taken up at any time. This 
is done either to give time for more thorough investigation 
or to make way for something that is temporarily more ur- 
gent. The motion is often illegitimately used to suppress a 
question, but as it is a friendly motion it should not be so 
used. (See Question 257.) 

242. What is the effect of the motion to Lay on the Table? 
If carried it takes the question upon which it is moved 

to the table, together with all pending motions relating to 
or connected with it. For instance, a main question, tabled, 
takes any pending amendments and a pending motion to 
commit or to postpone, to the table with it. A motion to 
table merely suspends action temporarily on the question 
to which it is applied and the supposition is that considera- 
tion is to be resumed at the precise point where it was 
suspended. (See Question 264 and note on what goes to and 
comes from the table). 

243. What is its rank, that is, what motions does it pre- 
cede and to which does it yield? 

It is highest in rank of all the Subsidiary Motions, but 
yields to Privileged and Incidental Motions, because the 
latter are superior. 

244. Upon what principles is the motion to Lay on the 
Table given high privilege? 

Because it is for the best interests of the assembly 
that it shall have the power to instantly lay aside any 
business in order to gain time for fuller consideration or 
better information, or in order to attend to something more 



54 

urgent. The motion is not hostile to the question, and 
leaves it so that it can be considered at any more convenient 
or auspicious time. 

245. What are its limitations? 

It cannot be applied to a part of a question or to an 
amendment alone; the question goes to the table as a whole. 
It cannot be made when a member has the floor, during the 
progress of voting, or the subject has just been taken from 
the table. 

246. Can it be debated, amended, tabled, committed, post- 
poned or reconsidered? 

Cannot be debated or have any Subsidiary Motions ap- 
plied to it, nor can an affirmative vote on it be reconsidered. — 
Robert 51; Reed 84; Hollister 51; Fox 93-94-95; Shattuck 184. 

247. If made once and defeated, when can it be renewed? 
Only after some change in the position or status of the 

original question. 

248. How may reports or unfinished business or any ques- 
tions taken collectively be laid on the table? 

The motion to Lay on the Table cannot be applied to 
more than the matter before the assembly at the time, 
therefore it cannot be made to cover a group of questions, 
but must be moved on each in turn as each comes up. A 
better way to set these aside temporarily would be to move 
that the rules establishing the order of business be sus- 
pended, that the reports, etc., be set aside temporarily, and 
that such matters (naming them) as seem more impera- 
tive be taken up in their stead. — Robert 55. 

249. Can a tabled question be taken from the table in any 
oaher way than by a motion and vote? 

Yes, by the use of a modified form of the Motion to 
Table, which is: "To Lay on the Table Subject to Call." In 
this case any member may call the tabled question up with- 
out a motion, which is an advantage. 

250. What becomes of a motion that is on the table at the 
close of the session (or club year) ? 

It is finally lost. — Shattuck 185. 

251. What questions may be tabled alone, leaving the main 
question untouched? 

An appeal, a Motion to Reconsider, a Question of Privi- 
lege, and an Amendment to the Minutes or Rules. These 



55 

are not closely enough related to the main question to carry- 
it to the table with them. An Appeal or a Question of Privi- 
lege, if tabled, only take to the table any pending motion 
relating to them.— Robert 52-53; Hollister 17-18; Fox 64; 
Reed 219 (note). 

252. What motions cannot be laid on the Table? 

To Fix the Time and Place to which to Adjourn; To 
Adjourn; A Call for Orders of the Day; Points of Order 
and Questions of Privilege if urgent; an Objection to Con- 
sideration; to Suspend Rules; The Previous Question; to 
Lay on or Take from the Table; to Postpone; to Commit; 
to Amend; to Postpone Indefinitely. 

The call for the Orders of the Day or the Previous Ques- 
tions, the motions to Postpone, to Commit, to Amend and 
to Postpone Indefinitely cannot, themselves be tabled but 
the motion to Table is in order while they are pending and 
may be applied to the question involved. If the motion to 
table is adopted it takes the whole question to the table. 
Motions that necessarily arise out of Points of Order or 
Questions of Privilege are open to the same action as any 
independent motion. Hollister 17; Shattuck (table) xvi; 
Robert 34. 

253. Should a motion "to Lay on the Table for a specified 
time" be ruled out of order? 

It is not strictly in order because the motion to Lay 
on the Table cannot be limited in any way. A considerate 
chairman, however, would not rule it out of order but would 
state it as "a motion to Postpone to a Definite time. 

254. Could the same result be obtained by the use of either 
of the motions to Postpone Definitely or Indefinitely as by 
the use of the motion to Lay on the Table? 

No because to Postpone Indefinitely suppresses for the 
session, and if it be Postponed Definitely it cannot be taken 
up before the time set for it except by a two-thirds vote 
whereas if tabled it may be taken up at any time, either 
at the same or a future meeting at the pleasure of the as- 
sembly. 

255. Which is the proper motion to use as a means of 
finding out at once whether the assembly wishes a subject 
discussed or not? 



56 

To Lay on the Table and the Previous Question are 
sometimes used for this purpose but the Objection to Con- 
sideration is the proper motion. 

256. Can the motion to Lay on the Table be made after 
the Previous Question has been stated? 

Yes, it is superior to the Previous Question and can be 
made even after the Previous Question has been ordered 
and up to the time of taking the negative vote on the ques- 
tion to which the Previous Question was applied. If that 
question is tabled while under the order of the Previous 
Question the order goes to and comes from the table with 
it and the tabled question when taken from the table must 
be put to vote at once without debate. Robert 53; Shattuck 
97, 187. 

257. If to Lay on the Table is constantly used to suppress 
questions should a two-thirds vote be required to carry it? 

Yes. Because it is a fundamental principle of parlia- 
mentary law that every proposition is entitled to considera- 
tion; therefore, any motion that tends to suppress debate 
or consideration properly calls for a larger vote than that 
given to ordinary motions. Robert 179 (note), 53 (note). 

References — Lay on the Table. Robert 51, 178, 183; 
Shattuck 183; Reed 82, 145; Cushing 52, 95; Hollister 50; 
Fox 64. 

To Take From the Table. 

258. Is the motion to Take From the Table a privileged 
motion? 

No, it takes it chance with ordinary motions and can 
only be made when the floor is clear. 

259. When can a tabled question be taken from the table? 
At the same meeting, immediately after it has been 

tabled, or at some future meeting. Shattuck 184; Robert 
52; Cushing 52, 95; Reed 83; Fox 84. 

NOTE. 

Some authorities claim that the effect of the motion 
to Take from the Table expires at the close of the meeting 
following the one at which the subject was tabled but as 
it is not intended to suppress a question but to give op- 
portunity for consideration at the pleasure and convenience 



57 

of the body it should not be limited except by the termina- 
tion of the final meeting of the session. 

260. What is the form for the motion? 

"I move to take from the table the motion in regard to 
(stating the subject of the tabled motion) which was laid 
on the table at — ." (such and such a time). 

261. What is its order of precedence? 

It yields to all Privileged and Incidental questions ex- 
cept Objection to Consideration. 

262. Can it be amended or debated? 

No. Cannot be debated and no Subsidiary motion can 
be applied to it. 

263. Can it be reconsidered or renewed? 

The affirmative vote on it cannot be reconsidered. It 
may be renewed after the intervention of substantial busi- 
ness. 

264. In what condition is the main question when taken 
from the table? 

As the object of the motion is to resume consideration 
at the point interrupted, it comes from the table precisely 
as it was at the time it was laid on the table, namely, with 
all the amendments and dependent motions relating to or 
connected with it, these to be considered in the exact order 
laid on the table. Cushing 95; Reed 83; Shattuck 185; 
Crocker 77; Pish 64; Lewis; Robert 52. 

NOTE. 

Those consulted, who hold a different opinion and claim 
that all motions except amendments are defeated by a mo- 
tion to table and that only the amendments are to be con- 
sidered when the subject is taken from the table are: Fox 
85; Hollister 52; Paul 89; Waples 81; Stevens 222; Roberts 
20. 

References — Take from the Table. Robert 52, 179 (in 
article on Lay on the Table); Shattuck 184; Cushing 52,95; 
Hollister 52; Fox 84; Reed 83. 

To Postpone to a Definite Time, or to a 
Time Certain. 

265. What is the form for the motion to Postpone to a 
Definite Time? 



58 

"I move that further consideration of the question be 
postponed to . ..." or, "I move to postpone consideration 
of the question to .... " 

266. What is its object and effect? 

Its object is to secure consideration for a proposition 
at a definite time. Its effect is to delay action, thus giving 
time to acquire information, to make any needed investiga- 
tion and for better preparation for discussion and final 
decision. The motion is favorable to the proposition and 
useful in preventing hasty or ill advised action. Reed 84; 
Robert 178; Shattuck 189; Hollister 54; Fox 62; Cushing 51. 

267. What is the effect of the motion to Postpone to a Time 
Certain on the question to which it is applied? 

If carried it postpones the entire subject, that is to say, 
the main question and all pending questions relating to 
it Robert 62; Shattuck 189; Fox 62; Cusing 98. 

268. What is its rank? 

It is third in rank of the Subsidiary motions. 

269. What motions does it precede and to what does it 
yield? 

It precedes the motions to Commit, Amend and Postpone 
Indefinitely and yields to all Privileged and Incidental Mo- 
tions and to the motion to Lay on the Table. 

270. Is the motion to Postpone in order when a member 
has the floor? 

No. 

271. Is it debatable? 

Only as to the advisability of postponing. 

272. Can it be amended or laid on the table? 

It can be amended only as to the time to which to post- 
pone. It cannot itself be tabled but if a motion to table 
the main question is made while it is pending the motion 
to Postpone is carried to the table with the main question. 

273. If a motion to Adjourn is made while a motion to 
Postpone is pending what is the result? 

The motion to Postpone is suspended together with the 
main question to which it relates and comes up with that 
question whenever consideration of it is resumed. 

274. What is the effect of the Previous Question on the 
motion to Postpone? 



59 

If the Previous Question is ordered while the motion 
to Postpone is pending, unless it is limited to the motion 
to Postpone, that motion is cut off, as if it had never been 
made, and the vote is at once taken on the main question 
and its pending amendments. If, however, the Previous 
Question is ordered specifically on the motion to Postpone 
it applies to that motion alone, leaving any others that 
may be pending untouched. Shattuck 92, 93. 

275. Can it be reconsidered or renewed? 
Yes. 

276. What does a postponed question become and when 
does it come up again. 

It becomes one of the Orders of the Day and comes up 
on the day to which it was postponed under the head of 
"Unfinished business" unless an hour was named for its 
consideration. Reed 190; Robert 137. 

277. How can a definite hour as well as a day be secured 
for its consideration? 

By naming an hour in the motion to Postpone: "I 
move that consideration of this question be postponed to 
the next regular meeting at 10:30 o'clock." In general 
practice this motion like the simple motion to Postpone 
to another day is carried by a majority vote but as a fixed 
hour interferes with the regular Order of Business and is 
equivalent to a Suspension of Rules either the same vote 
as is required to make a Special Order (a two-thirds vote) 
should be required or else the rule adopted by the House 
of Representatives. (Par. 769, page 334 of the Manual and 
Digest, 1912) that "the motion to Postpone to a Day Cer- 
tain may not specify the hour," should become a general 
parliamentary ruling. (See Orders of the Day, Lesson VI, 
Question 480.) 

278. How can a question be given the right way over all 
other business? 

Only by a motion that it be made a "Special Order." 
"I move that the question be made a Special Order for the 
next regular meeting." A two-thirds vote is required to 
make a Special Order because it interferes with the estab- 
lished order of business and it is a parliamentary principle 
that after rules have been adopted any suspension of them 
should only be by a larger vote than was required to adopt 



60 

theru. If made a Special Order it is brought up immediately 
after the reading of the Minutes. 

279. If there are two or more postponed questions what 
is the order of consideration? 

In the order postponed even if all except the first are 
taken up before or after the hour named, for example, if 
one order had been for eleven o'clock and another for eleven 
thirty if the first were disposed of by eleven fifteen or 
twenty it would be manifestly sensible to take up the second 
question without waiting for the time set for it to arrive. 
Robert 63. 

280. Is there any limit of time to which a question may 
be postponed? 

No question can be carried over from one session to 
the next, but there is, properly, no limit within the session. 
Sessions however, vary in length of time in different organ- 
izations, being defined by standing rule, program or direct 
vote as the case may be. (See Session, Lesson 10). 

281. What becomes of business that is interrupted by the 
calling up of a postponed question? 

It is simply held in abeyance until the special assign- 
ment is disposed of and is to be resumed after that is set- 
tled or at the next meeting as unfinished business. 

282. When again taken up what motions accompany it? 
All motions relating to or connected with it that were 

pending when it was postponed. Shattuck 189, 191. 

283. If it is desired to postpone consideration and yet to 
take the matter up before the next regular meeting what 
should be done? 

A motion should be made that there be a special meet- 
ing, but the time for that meeting should be fixed before 
the motion to postpone is adopted. 

284. Is the motion to Postpone to be preferred to the mo- 
tion to Lay on the Table? 

Yes, by the friends of the proposition at least, because 
the motion to table sometimes disposes prematurely and 
permanently of a question which should receive more con- 
sideration, therefore unless they have reason to believe that 
the question will fare better if left to be taken off the table 
at what may prove to be a more opportune time than any 



61 

that could be fixed before hand, it may not be safe to Lay 
it on the Table. 

285. What is the duty of the secretary and of the presiding 
officer to a postponed question? 

The secretary is to take charge of it, recording its ex- 
act status at the time of postponement and the chair must 
bring it up at the proper time. If the chair fails to do this 
the secretary should call attention to it and if not brought 
up by either officer any member may call for it. 

References — To Postpone to a Definite Time. Robert 
62, 178; Shattuck 188; Reed 190, 84, 146; Cushing 51, 97; 
Hollister 54; Fox 62,103. 

To Postpone Indefinitely. 

286. Properly speaking is the motion to Postpone Indefi- 
nitely a motion to Postpone and what is its effect? 

It is really a motion to suppress or reject and in effect 
it practically kills a question because if the question is in- 
definitely Postponed it cannot be renewed during the session. 
It is used to try the strength of the opposition witout com- 
ing to a direct vote on the question itself. If the motion 
loses consideration of the question proceeds as if the motion 
to Postpone Indefinitely had not been made. 

287. To what can it be applied? 

To nothing but a Principal Motion as originally made 
or as amended and to a Question of Privilege. 

288. What is the form for making it? 

"I move the question (stating it) be postponed in- 
definitely." 

289. Is this motion debatable? 

Yes, is debatable itself and opens the question to be 
postponed to full debate. 

290. What is its rank, that is to say: to what motions does 
it yield and what does it precede? 

It is lowest in rank of the Subsidiary motions, taking 
precedence of nothing but the main question, it yields to 
Privileged and Incidental motions and to all the superior 
Subsidiary motions. 

NOTE. 

There is a difference of opinion concerning the status 
of to Postpone Indefinitely. Those consulted who hold the 



62 

opinion that it is equal in rank with to Amend are: Robert 
70; Hollister 56; Fox 68; Waples 14, 15; Neeley 75, 79. 
Those who place it lowest in the order of precedence are: 
Shattuck 83, 192; Stevens 156; Fish 86. Reed says that in 
the House and in a dozen or more of the popular branches 
of the state legislatures the motion has been in a measure 
relegated to the rear. The Massachusetts House does not 
recognize the motion at all. It is placed lowest in the list 
in the House Manual and there is no evidence of equal rank 
w T ith the motion to Amend. In these lessons it is regarded 
as the lowest in rank because being a motion to repress it 
should be given as little strength as possible. Reed, 196, 
198; House Manual and Digest, 1912 (Par. 765, 331). 

291. Can any Subsidiary motions be applied to it and can 
it be reconsidered? 

No Subsidiary motion except the Previous Question can 
be applied to it but the vote on it can be reconsidered. 

292. What is the effect if the Previous Question is ordered 
while the motion to Postpone Indefinitely is pending? 

The motion to Postpone Indefinitely is cut off, made 
void, not merely suspended, and the main question and any 
amendments to it that may be pending are brought to an 
immediate vote. (See Lesson III, Questions 202 and 291, and 
also the note following question 216.) 

293. Can the Previous Question be applied to it without 
affecting the main question? 

Yes, if so limited in the motion. 

294. How does to Postpone Indefinitely differ from Ob- 
jection to Consideration as a means to suppress? 

It may be made after discussion has taken place whereas 
the latter can only be made before; to Postpone Indefinitely 
opens the main question to full debate and requires only a 
majority vote, Objection to Consideration requires a two* 
thirds vote and permits no debate; and even where second- 
ing is made obligatory the Objection requires no second, 
the Indefinite Postponement does. 

References — Postpone Indefinitely. Robert 70, 102, 183; 
Reed 86, 146, 196; Cushing 50; Shattuck 170, 192; Hollister 
55; Fox 68. 



LESSON V. 

Voting on Questions, on Elections; Motions that Require a 
Two-Thirds Vote, a Unanimous Vote; Reconsideration; 
Renewal; To Rescind or Repeal; Motions that Cannot 
be Reconsidered. 



"Voting is the most important act of every deliberative 
assembly, and is the only means of obtaining a decision of 
the members on any question." — Paul. 

"The voice of the majority decides; for the lex majoris 
partis is the law of all councils, elections, etc., where not 
otherwise expressly provided." — Jefferson. 



295. How is a motion Put to Vote and when is it decided? 
When discussion appears to be closed the chair asks, 

"Are you ready for the question?" and if no further remarks 
are offered states the motion in its present status and puts 
to vote as follows: "All in favor will say aye (ayes re- 
spond); all opposed no (noes respond)." This is "Putting" 
the question (to vote). If the ayes are in the majority the 
chair will say, "the motion is carried;" if the noes are in 
the majority: "The motion is lost." This is "Declaring" 
the vote and the question is not decided until both the 
affirmative and the negative have been taken and the chair 
has declared the result of the vote. The affirmative is 
always taken first. 

296. What are some other forms for Putting and Declaring? 
"The question is on the adoption of the motion" (stating 

it) : "All in favor say aye," "All opposed say no." If the 
motion is presented in the form of a resolution after it is 
read the chair may say: "You have heard the resolution 
read, those in favor of its adoption, etc." Declaring: "The 
ayes have it and the motion or resolution is adopted;" 
or the terms, is carried, is ordered, or prevails may be 
used. "The noes have it and the motion is lost," etc. Shat- 
tuck 98; Robert 109; 110; Reed 171; Fox 134, 106; Hollister 
87. 



64 

297. Is it necessary for the chairman to rise when putting 
a motion to vote? 

Only in large, formal meetings. 

298. What is the usual manner of voting and why? 

(1.) By voices, or sound, called the "viva voce" vote, 
as in Question 296, "All in favor say aye," etc. This takes 
less time, and is simpler than any other method and is in 
general use for ordinary questions. 

299. What are some other ways of voting and when and 
how are they used? 

Besides the Viva Voce vote other ways are: (2) By 
Show of Hands; (3) by Division; (4) by Yeas and Nays; 
(5) by Ballot; (6) by Silent Assent. Division may be either 
by rising to be counted or by having the Ayes go to one 
side, the Noes to the other, the Yeas and Nays are also 
known as the Roll Call. Show of Hands and Rising to be 
Counted are used when an accurate count is needed; the 
Ayes going to one side, etc., for the same reason but only 
in large assemblies and close contests; the Yeas and Nays 
or Roll Call is used when it is desirable to place members 
on record as to how they voted; the Ballott whenever 
secrecy is demanded, as in nominations, elections and deli- 
cate or embarrassing questions, and Silent Assent in matters 
of routine. The Yeas and Nays are seldom used except in 
assemblies whose members are responsible to a constitu- 
ency. The different forms of the Ballot are the Paper Bat- 
lot and the Ball Ballot Shattuck 99, 102, 105; Fox 105; 
Robert 113, 110; Reed 171, 176; Hollister 75,79. 

300. How is the vote by Silent Assent most frequently used? 
In routine matters such as, approving the minutes, re- 
ceiving reports, referring to standing committees, etc.; in 
short, such business as is obviously necessary or proper at 
the time, especially such formal business as requires no dis- 
cussion. In many such matters the chair can greatly facil- 
itate business by assuming consent granted and declaring 
without the formality of a vote; for example: "If there is 
no objection, the minutes stand approved," and after waiting 
a moment for objection, "the minutes are approved." "If 
there is no objection the report will be received," or "the 
matter will be referred to the committee on . . . and then, 
no objection being made, "It is so ordered." 



. 65 

301. What may be done if a viva voce vote is doubted? 
The chair, if in doubt, can ask voters to rise and be 

counted, or may use anyone of the methods that cannot be 
doubted. Any member may call for a division. ''The chair 
is in doubt," or "the vote is doubted," "I doubt the vote," 
or "I call for a division of the house," are the forms used. 
Robert 110; Shattuck 101; Hollister 79. 

302. What becomes of a question in case of a Tie, and 
why? What can be done? 

It is lost, because it takes a majority to carry. If the 
chair has not already voted she may do so now, but is not 
obliged to. Her vote will decide either for or against as 
she casts it. "If she votes now she will say: "Twenty have 
voted in the affirmative and twenty in the negative, the 
chair is to be counted in the affirmative and the motion is 
carred." The vote of the chair is called "the casting vote." 
Shattuck 103; Robert 112; Hollister 80; Fox 120. 

303. What is a Majority? 

Not less than one over half. 

304. What is a Plurality? 

The largest of two or more numbers. A plurality vote 
is permissible only by special rule or by majority vote 
where there is no rule. 

305. Of what are these votes a majority, plurality, etc.? 

A majority, etc., of all the votes cast is meant, but, by 
special provision, of those present or of the entire mem- 
bership may be the rule. 

306. Does the majority always decide, and what other votes 
are there? 

When a bare majority seems unwise a larger vote is 
required such as a two-thirds, a three-fourths or even a 
unanimous vote, and occasionally a vote as small as a one- 
fifth is allowed. 

307. Is it true that anything may be done by "Unanimous" 
or general consent? 

While it is true, as Reed says, that by unanimous con- 
sent an assembly may do anything which it is competent 
to do, in practice its use is usually confined to matters 
of routine, and although occasionally certain procedures, 
otherwise irregular, may be indulged in by general consent, 
care should be taken not to misuse this action and never 



66 

to allow its use when it would seem the least unfair or 
unwise to do so, for if one person objects, even afterwards, 
the effect of unanimous consent is nullified. Reed 28; 
Shattuck 72; Robert 51, 123 (foot notes); Cushing 126. 

308. What motions require a Two-Thirds vote? 

A Call for the Previous Question; Objection to the Con- 
sideration of a Question; To Amend or to Suspend a Rule; 
To Make a Special Order; To Take up a Question out of 
its Proper Order; To Extend, Limit or Close Debate; To 
Expel a Member. Robert 117, 203. Fox 95; Hollister 18. 

309. What vote is required for the Yeas and Nays? 

In Congress the roll call may be ordered by a 1-5 vote, 
in some small bodies upon the demand of a single member. 
Robert 115 (note). 

310. What motions require Unanimous Vote? 
Secretary casting One Ballot for the Whole Body; Vot- 
ing upon Names Collectively; Election by Acclamation; Ex- 
punging from the Records; Withdrawal of a Motion; Resum- 
ing Debate after the Affirmative is Put; Also, in general, 
any irregularity which the meeting seems willing, for the 
time being, to allow. (As in matters of routine, etc.) Shat- 
tuck 248; Robert 114. 

311. For what else should Unanimous Vote be required? 
Unanimous vote should also be required for the suspension 

of any rule giving any right to a minority as small as one- 
third. This is because there would be no use, for instance, 
in a rule allowing one-fifth of those present to order the 
Yeas and Nays if two-thirds of those present could suspend 
that rule. (See Question 309.) Robert 50, 51 (note.) 

312. Can an election be made unanimous when the vote on 
it was not unanimous? 

The motion "that an Election be made Unanimous" 
is sometimes used, but it violates a parliamentary principle 
because it has a tendency to force those who did not 
vote for the candidate when electing to vote in the candi- 
date's favor on the second vote through a mistaken sense of 
courtesy. The motion should be ruled out of order and its 
use discouraged. If it is allowed, the vote on it must, of 
course, be unanimous. 

313. What request and what explanation may be made in 
regard to voting by roll call? 



67 

A member may rise and ask to be excused from voting 
or may rise and explain why her vote was affirmative or 
negative but must not in so doing discuss the merits of 
the question being voted on. After the secretary has begun 
to call the roll it is too late to be excused. 

314. When a member has not been excused from voting and 
yet does not vote what is the result? 

It is the same as if she had voted with the winning 
side and one who thus "silently assents" shares the resopn- 
sibility with that side and is not at liberty afterwards to 
question the 'action. Fox 104 ; Paul 154. 

315. Can a member change her vote. 

Yes, before the vote is declared unless the vote was by 
ballot. This is sometimes done to secure reconsideration. 

316. Can the maker of a motion vote against it? 

Yes, but cannot speak against it; can, however, oppose 
any amendment to it. Robert 101; Paul 239. 

317. When should the right to vote be withheld and what 
fundamental principle applies to this action? 

In any case where one member alone is personally con- 
cerned. The principle: "That no man should sit and act as 
a judge in his own case." Cushing 34; Robert 112. 

318. When the time arrives for an Election is a motion 
required? 

No; the chair will say, as in matters of routine, "If there 
is no objection we will proceed to the election of officers," 
but any member may offer a motion, "that we now proceed," 
etc. 

319. How may officers be nominated and elected? 
Nominated by informal ballot, from the floor, or by a 

nominating committee. Elected by ballot, or viva voce. Tf 
rules have been adopted and incorporated in the constitution 
or by-laws the election is not legal unless they are com- 
plied with. 

320. What is an informal ballot? Who are the nominee? 
Is this ballot ever an election? 

An informal Ballot is a ballot taken to ascertain the 
wish of the body as to candidates. Each member writes her 
choice on a slip of paper and hands it to one of the tellers. 
Each person voted for in this way is a nominee. A rule 
should be adopted beforehand making the two or three re- 



68 

ceiving the highest number of votes or each one who receives 
a certain number of votes, or every one who receives any 
votes the candidates. If there is no rule it takes a majority 
to make a candidate. The candidates nominated by the in- 
formal ballot are then placed in nomination and formally 
voted for. The informal ballot is a nominating ballot and is 
never an election. It is equivalent to the "primaries" of 
a political election and although it takes up a good deal of 
time it is a fair and excellent method of selection of candi- 
dates. Shattuck 23. 260. 

321. In organizations where seconding is the custom do 
nominations require a second? And can they be amended or 
reconsidered? 

No. 

322. Can a nomination be withdrawn? 

Yes, by the member who made it, but as the person 
nominated is not the author of the nomination she can only 
ask that her name be withdrawn saying, perhaps, that if 
elected she could not serve, etc. Some authorities hold that 
a candidate may withdraw her name but whether this be 
permitted or not the withdrawal cannot be in favor of any 
other candidate. 

323. Describe the Nominating Committee, its duties and 
methods. 

It is a committee appointed or Selected to prepare a 
list of nominees for office. It usually brings in one name 
for each office but may be instructed to bring in two or 
more. If the committee has no instruction, or there are no 
special rules and no precedent, it is not necessarily restricted 
to one name. As with all temporary committees its duties 
are over and the committee dissolved as soon as its report 
is read. It may report at the same or at a future meeting 
as instructed. 

324. What is part of the duty of a nominating committee? 
To find out whether those nominated will serve. This 

is especially desirable in cases where it is difficult to get 
members to serve as officers; it prevents the tendency to 
decline which frequently manifests itself, especially in 
women's organizations, as soon as the first declination oc- 
curs. Lewis. 



69 

325. When are nominations from the floor in order? 
Unless it is explicitly stated in the constitution or by- 
laws of an organization that nominations can only be made 
in a certain way they are always in order. When nomina- 
tions are made by a committee nominations from the floor 
are in order after the committee report has been made and 
may be offered by any member. The nominations of the com- 
mittee take precedence over the others. Securing candidates 
through a nominating committee is in general use and is 
productive of well considered results and usually, fair. 
If independent nominations from the floor are also permitted 
little is left to be desired. Nominations from the floor may 
also be allowed at the time that the nominating committee 
is appointed but the committee need only regard these as 
suggestions. When nominations are from the floor or from 
a committee the chair should - ask ''Are there any other 
nominations/' or "Have all nominated who wish to do so," 
until all who wish have been heard from. Paul 285; Shat- 
tuck 20, 21; Fox 127. 

326. How may nominations be limited? 

Only by constitutional provision. Unless it is explicitly 
stated that no nominations other than those provided for 
in the constitution may be made every name presented must 
be voted on up to the limit of the general law which allows 
every member to name one candidate. 

327. What motion cuts off nominations? 

The motion "that Nominations be Closed." This, how- 
ever, is not in order until every member has had an oppor- 
tunity to name a candidate and does not prevent ballots 
being cast for persons who are not nominees. "Have all nomi- 
nated who so desire, if so nominations are closed," is the 
form used by the chair to close nominations. 

328. Can this motion be debated, amended or reconsidered? 
No. 

329. If Nominations are from the floor and Election must 
be by ballot what is the method of procedure? 

The chair will say "Nominations (for president for in- 
stance) are now in order." The secretary records the names 
until all have nominated who wish, each member being. 
under the general law, entitled to name one; the chair then 
reads the list of nominees, or requests the secretary to do 



70 

so: the tellers collect and count the ballots and report the 
result to the chair who then states: (1) the number of 
votes to which the assembly is entitled, which is the voting 
strength and consists of those present who have the right 
to vote; (2) the number of votes cast; (3) the number 
necessary to elect; (4) the number received by each candi- 
date, beginning with the highest. The result is then de- 
clared by the chair as follows: "Mrs. C. has received a 
majority of the votes cast and appears to be elected; (after 
pausing a moment to allow for any possible objection) Mrs. 
C. is elected president." Bethel 42; Shattuck 22, 23; Robert 
113. 

330. What is a vote by Acclamation? 

The real definition of a vote by Acclamation is "a unan- 
imous viva voce vote." It is not a recognized parliamentary 
form of voting and while it is sometimes used as a com- 
plimentary vote it never should be in elections unless it is 
the immediate and unanimous choice of the assembly and 
there is no rule in regard to the manner of electing; and 
but one candidate for an office. If there are several offices 
to be filled and only one candidate for each office, all the 
names may be put to vote at one and the same time, "All in 
favor of the candidates as nominated for the respective of- 
fices will please say aye," etc. An election by acclamation 
should be preceded by a motion "that the election be by ac- 
clamation," and the vote on this motion must be unanimous. 

331. If no rules have been adopted prescribing the manner 
of electing what should be done? 

The chair should ask "How shall the election be held?" 
A motion to Provide for the Manner of Taking the Vote is 
in order at any time prior to taking the vote and this should 
be decided before proceeding to an election. 

332. Can this motion be made while the main motion is 
pending and can any objection be made to its consideration? 

May be made while the main motion is pending and ob- 
jection to its consideration cannot be raised. Fox 76. 

333. What method is in general use for election to office 
or membership? 

The ballot is in common use and is the best because it 
can hardly fail to be impartial. Shattuck 26; Fox 127; Hol- 
lister 24; Paul 163. 



71 

334. Is the term "Secret Ballot" correct? 

No, the ballot is always secret, secrecy is its fundamental 
principle. 

335. When electing by Ballot what is the first thing in 
order ? 

To appoint tellers. The presiding officer usually ap- 
points them but the assembly may add to the appointments 
or may make them all. 

336. What is the function of the tellers? 

Their function is to distribute the balloting slips, to 
collect and count the votes. One reads the ballots aloud 
while the others keep records, or "tally" (tallying the votes 
in groups of five for each candidate, these groups balance 
each other and facilitate the summing up.) The tellers com- 
municate the result to the chair who thereupon announces 
the vote and "declares" such or such a candidate elected. 
The vote received by each candidate should be stated. 

337. How many tellers should there be and may they be 
notified in advance of intention to appoint them? 

There should never be less than two and if the gathering 
is large there may well be more, so that the work may be 
divided. Before an approaching convention or similar meet- 
ing it is customary to notify persons in advance of intention 
to appoint in order that time may be saved by securing 
consent to serve and by giving the chairman of the com- 
mittee of tellers an opportunity to plan the work. The ap- 
pointment is made, however, in open meeting. Fox 127. 

338. How may Proxy Votes be allowed? 

Only by special rules. Stockholders of corporations are 
generally allowed by state law to vote by proxy, but all 
national, state and municipal elections require the vote in 
person. When proxies are allowed they do not affect the 
quorum, that must be present. The authority should be 
given in writing and it is recommended that a committee 
be appointed to take charge of the proxy votes. Shattuck 
103 (note); Paul 166; Fox 116; Hollister 75 (b). 

339. If no one gets a majority in an election by ballot what 
happens? 

The chair declares, "no choice," and it becomes neces- 
sary to ballot again. 



72 

340. What vote is required to elect? 

A majority of all the votes cast unless special rules 
provide otherwise. 

341. What is the manner of electing by Voice or Viva Voce? 

When several names are presented for the same office 
they are put to vote one at a time, as in filling blanks, the 
one first named being first voted on, "AH in favor of Mrs. 
A. acting as chairman of this meeting say aye." "AH op- 
posed, say no." To put the names to vote in this way, how- 
ever, does not give an equal chance to all the candidates. It 
is therefore not a fair method of electing, but is in general 
use for electing the membership of committees. Voting on 
all the names at the same time by roll call or division or 
ballot insures an equal chance to all. Paul 208. 

342. What objection is there to electing by a plurality? 

It is possible to elect by a number so small as not to 
properly represent the assembly as a whole. If there are 
many candidates the largest vote may be as small as five, 
three or even two. 

343. Can a time be set for Closing the Ballot? 

Yes, by a motion "that the ballot be closed at 

o'clock." 

344. What does the chair ask when the time comes to close 
the ballot? 

"Have all voted who so desire, if so the polls are closed." 
Lewis. 

345. When a vote has been verified by show of hands or 
by rising and the result declared, can it be further verified? 

Only by unanimous consent or by reconsideration of the 
vote. Paul 159. 

346. How may ballots be cast? 

They may be cast for one officer, counted and reported 
before voting for another or the names of all the candidates 
may be on one ticket, either written or printed; the names 
not desired may be erased or, as in the Australian ballot, a 
cross may be placed before the names chosen. Shattuck 21, 
23; Fox 113, 127. 



73 

347. May votes be cast for any one not on the list of 
nominees? 

Yes, by writing the name in connection with the office to 
be filled, and if enough such votes were cast for any one per- 
son she would be legally elected. The common law gives 
the right to vote independently, and Mrs. Lewis says "no 
rules should be adopted limiting the right of independent 
suffrage. Eminent authorities doubt whether such restriction 
could be maintained in a court of law." 

348. How are delegates, or members of a board, or similar 
body voted on collectively? 

As many names are written or printed on one ballot 
as there are delegates, or members, etc. 

349. What ballots are illegal? 

A blank ballot (unless permitted under special rule) 
or a ballot containing more names than the number of per- 
sons to be elected. These are not to be considered in finding 
the number necessary for a choice. A ballot with fewer 
names is legal as is also a ballot cast for a person not in 
nomination; enough of the latter would elect such person 
Fox 114, 115; Robert 110. 

350. If the ballot does not contain as many names as there 
are delegates, etc., to be elected, as for instance, only two 
names when there are five to be elected, how are these 
counted? 

As one vote for each of the two names. 

351. When delegates are to be elected, three for example, 
and the same name is written three times on one slip or 
ticket should this ballot be thrown out? 

No, it should be counted as one vote for that one person. 
Every member is entitled to one vote for each of three 
persons who are all to be delegates but not to three votes 
for the same person. 

352. When the full number of names does iot appear is 
any record to be kept of the blanks thus created? 

Yes, these are necessary to verify the count; they inutit 
be added to the total number of votes cast and this should 
equal the whole number of legal votes multiplied by the 
number to be elected. Fox 115. 



74 

Form for Announcing the Result of a Ballot. 

Number of Votes Cast Number of Legal Votes 

Cast 

Necessary to a Choice 

Mrs. A 

Mrs. B 

Mrs. C 

Total 

353. What vote is required to order the Yeas and Nays? 

In Congress and in many state legislatures a one-fifth 
vote is required by constitutional provision. Under the gen- 
eral law the usual vote, a majority, is the requirement. Shat- 
tuck recommends the one-fifth vote, by special rule, in all 
permanent societies, and Robert says that in some small 
bodies a single member may demand it. Hollister holds that 
one member may demand it if there is no objection and no 
rule to the contrary, and, further, that the chair may order 
the vote by Yeas and Nays. Others differ and the present 
writer agrees with Mrs. Paul that as it is not in accord 
with parliamentary principles to compel a member to make 
public her vote the Yeas and Nays can only be ordered by 
the assembly itself by a majority vote and should never be 
ordered except for some very good reason. Paul 160; Shat- 
tuck 106; Robert 114; Hollister 78. 

354. What should be done with the ballots after they are 
counted? 

Each set should be put in a safe receptacle and carefully 
preserved until all probability of a recount being necessary 
is over. Fox 114. 

355. When the names of several applicants for membership 
are being voted on collectively how can a negative vote be 
cast against any one of them? 

The negative vote is to be cast just as if only one name 
were being voted on. If as many negative votes are cast as 
would be needed to reject one person, if applied to one only, 
the ballot must be taken again and each name be voted on 
singly. Fox 113. 



75 

356. Can the Secretary be directed to Cast the Ballot for the 
whole membership when there is only one candidate for an 
office or one for each of several offices? 

This is frequently done and is sanctioned by some author- 
ities provided no objection is raised. If there is even one 
objection the usual ballot must be had. Many of the best 
parliamentarians disapprove of this action altogether. Mrs. 
Fox observes that it is contrary to the spirit and purpose 
of the ballot as it is "to all intents and purposes a viva voce 
vote. "Mrs. Paul says that it violates the fundamental prin- 
ciple of the ballot, the right of a secret vote, when it compels 
a member who wishes to object, to do so publicly, since it 
is obvious that such objection is equivalent to a negative 
vote. The use of the motion "that the secretary be empow- 
ered to cast the ballot of the society" should be discouraged, 
and may well be ruled out of order. Paul 163; Fox 115; 
Shattuck 23; Hollister 76; Robert 114 (note). 

357. What may be done while the votes are being counted? 
A recess may be taken, speeches made or papers read 

but business is not recommended. 

358. What is a Ballot Box? 

A box made for use in voting. It has two compartments, 
one of which should be empty when voting begins, the other 
should hold both white and black balls. The presiding officer 
should see that this is its condition before it is passed around 
among the voters or placed on a table for them to go to. In 
either case the box must be so passed or placed that in its use 
the fundamental principle of the ballot, secrecy, is preserved. 
The member voting chooses and deposites a white ball for 
"yes" or a black ball for "no." 

359. How can an election held on any other day than that 
fixed by the constitution be made legal? 

By having an adjourned meeting. The adjourned meeting 
is a continuation of the same meeting and one or more may 
be held but they must all take place before the next regular 
meetings. An adjourned annual meeting is not an unusual 
occurence. Lewis. 

360. If only some of the officers or none are elected at the 
meeting specified in the constitution or at an adjourned 
meeting of that meeting what is the result? 



76 

In either case the old officers hold over until the next 
annual meeting. Lewis. 

361. What is a "Deadlock?" 

Where there is no election and no one is willing to 
change her vote. Voting must, of course, be continued until 
the deadlock is broken. 

362. What is the significance of the phrase, "until their 
successors are elected," used in connection with provisions 
for the election of officers? 

It merely legalizes the services of an officer for another 
term in case of no election, and has no bearing on resigna- 
tions. Lewis. 

363. When do newly elected officers assume the duties of 
their office? 

As soon as elected, unless some other time has been 
specified. A vote electing to office is operative at once like 
every other vote. Robert 114 (note) ; Fox 128. 

364. What is the custom in many societies? 

To hold elections as the last business at an annual meet- 
ing, in which case the retiring president presides until all 
the incoming officers are elected after which the latter are 
either inducted into office just before adjournment or else 
they simply assume their duties immediately after adjourn- 
ment, the new president presiding at the first meeting there- 
after. It is thought by some excellent authorities that the 
services of the retiring president are never more needed 
than during an election. 

365. How are vacancies caused and how are they to be 
filled? 

They may be caused by resignation, expulsion, death or 
election to higher office and provision must be made in the 
by-laws for filling them. Shattuck 46; Fox 10. 

References — Motions Requiring More than a Majority 
Vote.— Robert 110; Reed 28; Cushing 24; Shattuck 108; Fox 
95; Hollister 18. 

References — Voting on Questions — On Elections. Robert 
Art. VI. 109, Art. XI. 173; Reed Chapt. XIV. 171; Cushing 
Chapt. XIII: 124, 16, 17; Shattuck Chapt. IX. 98; Fox Chapt. 
VII. 104, 120; Hollister Sect. XXXII. 74, Sect. IV. 24. 



77 

To Reconsider, To Renew and To Rescind. 

To Reconsider, to Renew and to Rescind are motions 
that provide in different ways and under different conditions 
for "second thought" and change of mind. 

366. What position in regard to Renewing or bringing a 
question forward a second time, still held by the British Par- 
liament as a general principle of parliamentary law, has been 
modified by Congress and how? 

That when a question has been once decided, whether 
by an affirmative or by a negative vote, that decision must 
stand as the judgement of the assembly and the question 
thus decided may not be again brought forward. This posi- 
tion has been modified in Congress and in all deliberative 
bodies in this country by the use of the motion to Recon- 
sider. 

367. What are the general rules in regard to Reconsideration 
and Renewal of motions? 

Rule (1). No Main, or Independent Motion, or Amend- 
ment, that has once been acted upon, can be again brought 
forward during the same session except by a motion to Re- 
consider and if it has once been reconsidered and defeated 
it can only be Renewed (brought forward again) in a changed 
form or after a sufficient length of time has elapsed to make 
it practically a different proposition. If the question was 
adopted a motion to Rescind the action taken may be made 
at any future time. (See Rescind, Question 400.) 

Rule (2). After being defeated any Subsidiary, Inci- 
dental or Privileged Motion, with a few exceptions, may be 
Renewed at any time while the same question is pending, 
provided that after it was first moved such change has taken 
place in the status of the question under consideration that 
it is not quite the same but is practically new or different. 
Such change may be made by the mere progress of debate 
by amendment or by the intervention of business, such as 
the introduction and adoption of other motions, etc. Shat- 
tuck 110; Robert 72, 74; Hollister 56, 59; Reed 147; dishing 
135; Fox 74. 

368. What is its effect and what is it proposed to Re- 
consider? 

If adopted it brings the original question before the 
assembly in precisely the same condition that it was in when 



78 

the first vote was taken. If lost the vote stands as taken, 
for it is the vote previously taken on a question that is re- 
considered. "I move that the vote on (stating the question) 
be reconsidered," or "I move to reconsider the vote by which 
action was taken upon . . . . " Shattuck 111, 118; Robert 
77; Hollister 56, 100. 

369. How many times can a question be reconsidered? 
Once only. No vote can be twice reconsidered unless it 

was so changed by amendment upon its first reconsideration 
as to be practically a new question. 

370. Who can make the motion to Reconsider and what is 
the reason for the restriction? 

Only a member who voted with the prevailing side. The 
restriction is to prevent the prevailing side from being taken 
by surprise by having the matter brought up in an unfair 
way. Besides, as Mrs. Shattuck says, it is supposed that if 
there is any good reason for reopening the matter some mem- 
ber of the winning side will be fair minded enough to move 
its reconsideration. Some parliamentarians assert that the 
rule cannot be enforced when the vote is by ballot but since 
the rule is based upon a sound principle there should be no 
exception, and when the individual vote is observed, the 
chair can at least follow Reed's advice and enquire of the 
mover whether she is of the prevailing side. 

371. Is the prevailing side necessarily the affirmative? 
No, it is the side that wins. 

372. When it has been decided to reconsider a question what 
action is it subject to? 

Any and all action that applies to a question of its class, 
that is to say, if it is a main question that is to be recon- 
sidered it is treated as any other independent proposition 
would be upon its first presentation. 

373. At what meetings can the motion to Reconsider be 
made? 

In assemblies holding continuous sessions of several 
days, weeks or months duration, such as conventions, legis- 
latures, etc., it can only be made on the same day or the 
day following that on which the vote to which it relates was 
taken. In permanent societies holding meetings at regular 
intervals, as frequently as once a week or month, it may 
be made at the same meeting or at the next regular (busi- 



79 

ness) meeting provided no action has been taken that can- 
not be reversed. If not made by the close of the subse- 
quent business meeting the only way to reach the question 
is by a motion to Renew it, if it was lost or to Rescind it if 
it was adopted. For societies holding regular meetings 
further apart than monthly, the use of the motion 
to Reconsider is confined to the one meeting. The reason 
for the limitation is to avoid delay in the progress of the 
question, which is suspended temporarily until the motion to 
reconsider is either rejected or adopted. The limitation, 
also prevents the use of the motion as a dilatory measure. 
Robert 79 (note); Shattuck 113, 265. 

374. How do adjourned meetings held in the interim between 
regular meetings affect reconsideration? 

Reconsideration will not hold over longer than the ad- 
journed meeting, which, however, must not be held on the 
same, but a different day. 

375. After a motion to Reconsider has been made by one of 
the prevailing side if not acted on at once who can call it up? 

Any member may call it up within the time limit. 

NOTE, 

Some parliamentarians, Robert among them, assert that 
if the matter holds over to another meeting only the one who 
made the motion to reconsider may call it up. 

376. Under what circumstances must action be taken at the 
same meeting? 

If to Reconsider is moved on an Incidental or a Sub- 
sidiary Motion it must be acted on at once so as not to delay 
the progress of the Main Question, provided that such action 
would not have the effect of removing the entire subject from 
the meeting as it would, for example, if it were a vote on a 
motion to Postpone Indefinitely that was to be reconsidered. 
Robert 76; Hollister 57 (h). 

377. Can it be made when other business has the floor and 
what is its order of precedence? 

It can be made at any time, even while a member is 
speaking or while a vote is being taken on a motion to 
Adjourn, but it cannot receive consideration while other 
business has the floor. . It should be entered on the minutes, 
it can then be called up at any time that the floor is clear. 



80 

If made while some motion is pending and recorded it takes 
precedence, when it is called up, of everything except either 
of the motions to Adjourn. If made when no other motion 
is pending it yields to Incidental and Privileged Motions*, 
except Orders of the Day. A motion to reconsider the vote on 
a Subsidiary Motion takes precedence of the Main Question. 
Robert 73, 77, 184; Hollister 57; Reed 151. 

378. If it is desired to make known before hand that a 
motion to Reconsider the vote on some question will be made 
later, at the same meeting or at the next business meeting, 
what may be done? 

A motion may be made to Enter on the Minutes a Mo- 
tion to Reconsider. This motion is undebatable. It suspends 
action on the original question until the motion to reconsider 
has been either adopted or rejected and care must therefore 
be taken not to put into execution any action ordered or 
permitted by the previous vote because such action or order 
may be reversed by the reconsideration. Fox 75; Hollister 
58; Robert 73, 76. 

379. What other motions temporarily annul a vote if made 
and carried while a motion to Reconsider is pending? 

The motions to Lay on the Table or- to Adjourn and if 
under the effect of these motions the limit of time allowed 
to the motion to Reconsider elapses before the vote on it 
Is taken it is the same as if the motion to Reconsider had 
not been made. Fox 75. 

380. To what does the motion to Reconsider apply? 

It is seldom applied to any but main or independent 
motions and amendments although it can be applied to nearly 
all the technical motions, but the motion to Reconsider a 
vote taken on any one of them cannot be made while a 
motion of higher rank is pending. 

381. When an amended motion is to be reconsidere'd what 
is the order of procedure? 

The vote on the original motion must be first recon- 
sidered. If there were two amendments the primary is next 
reconsidered and then the secondary. 

382. What is the general rule in regard to the method of 
Reconsideration ? 

That reconsideration or retraction must be made in 
regular order, the vote last taken being the first one to be 



80 a 



NOTE. 
Please Read the Preface. 

In the Lessons an effort has been made to provide for a 
choice of forms for presenting or stating questions. There 
are other forms, however, which, although not so generally 
used, are proper. In fact, except in those instances where 
the form is distinctive and peculiar, any words that convey 
the meaning clearly are, as a rule, permissible. 



80 b 



Chart of Motions 

AND 

Rules Relating 
to Them 

(?) Can the Numbered 
Motion be Applied to 
those below. 



1 Lay on the Table? 
2 Previous Question? 
3 Postpone Definitely? 
4 Commit? 
5 Amend? 

6 Postpone Indef . ? 
7 Debated? 
8 Reconsider? 



Adjourn, Fix Time 

Adjourn, or Rise 
Recess 

Amend . 

Appeal 

Commit, or Refer 
Recommit 

Debate, Close, or 
Extend, Limit... 

Divide a Question- 
Lay on the Table- 
Objection to 

Consideration ... 

Orders of 
the Day (z) 

Order, Point of 

Postpone Defi- 
nitely 

Postpone Indefi- 
nitely 

Previous Question- 
Privilege, 

Question of 

Reading Papers 

Reconsider 

Suspend Rules 

Take from 

the Table 

Take Up 

Out of Order 

Withdraw 

a Motion 



1 

no 

no 
(u) 

(g) 



23456789 Renew? 
no no no (a) no (b) yes (c) 



no no no no no no no (c) 
(p) no (n) yes no yes yes (c) 
(h) no no no no (i) (j) no 



(x) 



(u) (p) no no yes no (r) (s) (c) 



no % 
no no no yes no (q) yes 
no no no no no no (d) (c) 



no 

no 

no 
no 



no no no no no no (d) (y) (k) (x) 

no no no no no no no (f) (e) (x) 
no no no no no no no (x) 



(u) (p) no no no no (q) yes (c) 



no 

(u) 

yes 

(p) 

no 

no 



(p) no no no no (r) yes 

no no no no no no (w) (c) % 

yes yes yes yes yes yes yes (m) 
no 



(p) yes no no no no no (v) 



no 
(r) 
(t) 



no 



no no no no no no no (o) % 

no no no no no no (d) (c) 

no no % 

no no no no no no (1) (c) 



80 c 



(a) As to time, or place, only. 

(b) Not if made while another motion is pending. 

(c) After intervention of business or debate. 

(d) Affirmative vote cannot be. 

(e) Requires two- thirds vote to make a special order. 

(f) But not until the subject pending is disposed of. 

(g) Affects appeal only, cuts off debate, sustains chair, 
(h) If appeal is debatable, and affects the appeal only, 
(ij Except when it relates to indecorum, etc. 

(j) Unless action taken under it cannot be reversed. 

(k) A two-thirds vote in the negative dismisses for session. 

(1) But not if withdrawn after leave was given. 

(m) If immediate action is required. 

(n) Certain amendments may be committed, action on main 
question being suspended meanwhile. 

(o) Not for the same purpose at the same meeting. 

(p) Can be limited to it alone (if debatable). 

(q) Debate limited to propriety of postponing (or dividing). 

(r) Opens merits of entire subject to debate. 

(s) Not if committee has gone to work, committee may be 
discharged. 

(t) Debatable if the question to be reconsidered is. 

(u) Cannot be applied to the motion itself, but is in order 
while it is pending, and applies to whole subject. 

(v) Can be made at any time and entered on the minutes, 

but cannot be acted upon until the floor is clear. 
(w) Not after being partly executed, if lost, may be. 
(x) In order when a member has the floor. 
(y) Not at the same meeting. 

(z) A call for the order of the day cannot be tabled, pre- 
questioned, etc., but the orders when brought up by 
the call may be treated as any other question. 



80 d 



NOTE. 

It is necessary to clearly separate certain motions from 
the business or proposition to which they relate. For exam- 
ple: to say that the Orders of the Day cannot be debated, 
postponed, etc., means that if the motion "to proceed to the 
Order of the Day," also known as a "call," is made, that 
motion or call cannot be debated, postponed, etc., but the 
Orders or questions which are brought before the assembly 
by the motion or call can be debated, postponed, etc., as any 
ordinary question. The motions: to Amend, Commit, Post- 
pone Definintely and the Previous Question, offer another 
example. These motions cannot themselves be tabled, but 
the superior motion to Lay on the Table is in order while 
they are pending and applies to the business or proposition 
to which they relate, and if adopted takes the whole subject 
to the table, including the pending inferior motion. 



81 

reconsidered; reconsideration being, so to speak, a turning 
round and going back over the same path until the starting 
point is reached again. Reed 156; Fox 73, 74. 

383. Can reconsideration be applied to an amendment alone? 
Yes, if moved upon it before a final vote has been 

taken on the main motion as amended or, in case of a 
secondary amendment, on the primary amendment as 
amended. 

384. What Subsidiary motions can be applied to the motion 
to Reconsider and with what effect? 

When it is debatable the Previous Question may be ap- 
plied to it without affecting the main question and the 
motion to Lay on the Table may be applied to it alone, it 
can be Taken from the Table but under this circumstance 
is not privileged in any way. The motion to Reconsider 
cannot be amended or committed but reconsideration may 
be postponed to a given time. Robert 75; Hollister 58; 
Shattuck (Table XVI); Fox 93, 94. 

385. To what class of motions does it belong? 

A majority of parliamentarians call it a miscellaneous 
motion, but some class it as incidental. In these lessons it 
is regarded as miscellaneous. 

386. Can a motion to Reconsider be withdrawn? 

Only on the day made unless by general consent. If it 
is withdrawn any one can renew it. 

387. Is it debatable? 

Is debatable if the question to be reconsidered is, and 
when moved on a debatable question opens it to full debate. 

388. How many times can a main question be debated 
under the operation of the Motion to Reconsider? 

Three times: When first presented; while the motion 
to Reconsider is pending; and after the adoption of the mo- 
tion to Reconsider has brought the main question before the 
assembly again. Paul 141; Reed 154. 

389. Can a member whose right to debate had been pre- 
viously exhausted (when the question was first presented) 
take any part in the discussion after Reconsideration is 
moved upon it? 



82 

Can only take part in the discussion while the motion 
to Reconsider is pending; cannot debate after the main 
question is reinstated. Robert 78. 

390. When a vote which was forced by the Previous Ques- 
tion is brought up for reconsideration is it still under the' 
order of the Previous Question? 

No, it is divested entirely of that order and debate is 
reopened as freely as if the Previous Question had never 
been made. Reed 154; Robert 78. 

391. What restriction applies to the use of this motion in 
committee? 

It is in order only when every member of the winning 
side is present but it is not subject to any time limit. 

392. What votes can be reconsidered while the Previous 
Question is pending or after the main question has been or- 
dered? 

Votes taken previously on the motions to Amend, to 
Commit, to Postpone to a Certain Time and to Postpone 
Indefinitely but if the Previous Question has been ordered 
the motion to Amend or to Commit cannot be debated. Fox 63. 

393. What votes cannot be reconsidered? 

While there is a slight difference of opinion a majority 
of the authorities consulted agree, that, as a general prin- 
ciple, no vote can be reconsidered if action that cannot be 
reversed has been taken under it, and further, that it is 
doubtful if any vote that has gone into effect either wholly 
or in part should be open to reconsideration, and in this 
connection they rule as follows: A vote on to Commit can- 
not be reconsidered if the committee has entered into a con- 
tract or has even gone to work; the Previous Question 
cannot be reconsidered if it has been partly executed that is, 
if voting under it has begun, Nominations and Elections, 
which go into effect at once, cannot be reconsidered, neither 
can the following motions be reconsidered: Adjourn, Rise 
or Take a Recess; Suspend Rules; Lay on or Take from 
the Table (affirmative vote) and Reconsider, unless the 
question was so amended on the first reconsideration as to 
be practically a new, or different question. Robert 8, 9; Hoi- 
lister 17; Shattuck 247; Reed 149; Fox 93. 



83 

NOTE, 

Nearly every one of the several authorities adds one or 
more motions to the above list and what is included by one 
may be omitted by another, consequently the student can 
only follow some preferred authority. 

394. What unfair use is sometimes made of the motion to 
Reconsider and what is this called? 

Sometimes a motion to Reconsider is made immediately 
after a vote is taken in order to clinch matters and prevent 
future use of the motion for its true object which is, change, 
or correction, after reflection. Shattuck calls this "technical 
reconsideration." Shattuck 112; Pox 75. 

395. When it is too late to bring a question up again by a 
motion to reconsider what may be done? 

If the motion failed it may be renewed, if it was adopted 
it may be rescinded. 

References — Reconsideration. Robert 73, 184; Reed 
Chapt. XII. 147, 155; Cushing Chapt. XIV. 135; Shattuck 
Chapt. X. 110; Fox 64, 67, 73, 77, 94, 95, 102, 145; Hollister 
Sect. XXI. 56. 

Renewal of a Motion. 

396. To what kind of motions is Renewal usually applied, 
under what conditions and for what purpose? 

(See Rules (1) and (2), Question 367.) 

397. What motions cannot be Renewed? 

If a call for the Order of the Day (Privileged) is lost 
it cannot be renewed while the same question is pending, 
and a defeated motion to Suspend the Rules (Incidental) 
cannot be renewed for the same purpose at the same meeting; 
but if the question under consideration holds over to another 
meeting the motion to Suspend the Rules may be renewed; 
a defeated Amendment can only be renewed in a changed 
form. A motion that has been Indefinitely Postponed cannot 
be Renewed during the same session in the same form 
nor can a motion to Reconsider be renewed except as under 
Rule (1). 

398. What principle is noted in regard to Renewal of ques- 
tions or motions? 



84 

The principle of Change and always in the Main Ques- 
tion, in its environment, or in an Amendment to it. (See 
Rule 2, Question 267). 

Illustration of one phase of the change of status neces- 
sary for renewal of a technical motion: Suppose a Main 
Question pending; a motion to Postpone to a Certain Time 
is made and lost, after which it is moved to Refer the mat- 
ter to a committee. This motion having changed the status 
of the Main Question it is now in order to renew the motion 
to Postpone to a Certain Time. The assembly may prefer 
to postpone rather than to commit, which latter proposition 
has changed the main motion from a motion to be decided 
by a simple vote to one that may be referred to a committee, 
but if the motion to Postpone were not renewed until after 
the motion to Refer to a committee was voted on and lost, 
it would then be out of order . because the main question 
would be in exactly the same position or environment that it 
was in prior to the making of the motion to refer to a com- 
mittee. 

References — Renewal of a Motion. Robert 71; Shattuck 
176; Hollister 59; Reed 122. 

To Rescind, Repeal or Annul. 

399. To what class of motions does the motion to Rescind 
belong? 

It stands as a main or independent motion and has no 
privileges. 

400. For what is it used and when is it proper to make it? 

It is used to repeal or cancel an action previously taken 
when it is too late to reconsider the vote by which it was 
taken and can only be properly made when such action can 
be reversed. A contract, for example, would not be annulled 
by a motion to Rescind, nor would any action taken in good 
faith but based upon an error in the records be rendered 
invalid thereby. The motion to Rescind is in order no mat- 
ter how much time has elapsed since the action to be re- 
scinded was taken. 

401 What effect has it upon debate? 

It opens the main question to full debate, but not to 
further or to different action. 



85 

402. If tabled does it carry the main question to the table 
with it? 

No. 

403. What vote is required to Rescind? 

The same that was required on the motion that is to be 
rescinded. Shattuck 121. 

404. What is the form for this motion? 

"I move that the action taken in regard to . . . (stating 
the subject) on (naming the date) be rescinded (repealed 
or annulled)," or "I move to Rescind the action taken, etc." 

NOTE, 

Mrs. Shattuck asserts that the use of the motion to 
Rescind as stated above is an unfair evasion of the restric- 
tions placed upon reconsideration. Shattuck 121. 

References — Rescind. Robert 71; Hollister 43; Fox 85. 



LESSON VI. 

Privileged Motions, also called Emergency Motions or Mo- 
tions of Necessity: To Fix the Time and Place to which 
to Adjourn, To Adjourn, Questions of Privilege, A Call for 
the Orders of the Day. 



"Extreme justice is often injustice." — Racine. 

"From the nature of things, every society must at all 
times possess within itself the sovereign powers of legis- 
lation." — Jefferson. 



405. Besides Main or Independent Motions and Subsidiary 
Motions what others are classified by parliamentarians? 

Incidental and Privileged Motions. 

406. How do the four classes differ? 

The Main or Independent Motion introduces business 
and can only be made when the floor is clear; the Subsidiary 
Motion relates strictly to the progress of business and is 
made while that business is under consideration; Incidental 
Motions arise incidentally out of some other question or 
some condition and are decided before the matter out of 
which they arose; Privileged Questions have their origin 
in and relate to the assembly itself, as an organized whole 
or to its individual members, as members. 

407. How are the latter privileged and why? 

They have precedence over all other questions, may in- 
terrupt any business and must be considered as soon as 
made because they are necessary and urgent. This is the 
touchstone which decides whether they should or should not 
be allowed as privileged and what the quality of the privilege 
should be. 

408. How many are agreed upon by a majority of the author- 
ities as Privileged and what are they? 

They are as follows, arranged in the order of their pre- 
cedence among themselves: — (1). To Fix the Time (or Place) 
to Which to Adjourn; (2). To Adjourn; (3). Question of 
Privilege; (4). To Call for the Orders of the Day. 



87 

409. Can Privileged Motions be made more than once dur- 
ing the pendency of any one question? 

Yes, under the usual rule for renewal, except that a 
call for the Orders of the Day cannot be renewed while the 
same question is pending; and an Appeal, once decided, can- 
not be renewed. 

References — Privileged Motions. Robert 35; Reed 123; 
Cushing 80; Hollister 33; Pox 82. 

(1). To Fix the Time or Place to Which to Adjourn. 

410. What is the object of and need for this motion? 
This motion is needed only in cases where it is desired 

to hold another meeting and no stated time has been fixed 
for reassembling or no place has been provided and where 
the very pertinent question would be asked and would de- 
mand a definite reply, "Where and when shall this assembly 
meet again ?" 

411. What is the form for making it? 

"I move that when we adjourn, we adjourn to meet at 
(stating time and also place if necessary), or subject to the 
call of the chair, due notice to be given of the same." 

412. When is it privileged? 

If made when it is really a matter of necessity to arrange 
for the next time and place of meeting and while other 
business is pending it is privileged and takes precedence of 
all other motions; is in order even after the assembly has 
voted to adjourn provided the vote has not been announced. 
If made when no other motion has the floor, its standing 
is the same as that of any other independent motion. Reed 
126. 

413. Can any Subsidiary Motions be applied to it? 

None except to Amend and the amendment can only 
be as to the time and place of meeting. 

414. Is it debatable? 

No, both motion and amendment are undebatable. 

415. Can it be renewed or reconsidered? 

Can be reconsidered and may be renewed after proper 
business has intervened. 

NOTE. 

Robert advises ordinary societies to treat the motion 
To Fix the Time and Place to Adjourn as an independent 



88 

motion, as such it can of course be amended, debated, sup- 
pressed, etc. Mrs. Shattuck treats it as unprivileged. Robert 

36 (note); Shattuck 182. 

References — (1). To Fix the Time and Place to which to 
Adjourn. Robert 36, 191; Reed 126; Cushing 81; Shattuck 
183; Hollister 64; Fox 66. 

(2). To Adjourn. 

416. What is the meaning of the motion "to Adjourn?" 
As its name implies it means an interruption or inter- 
mission to be followed by a reassembling. 

417. When is the motion privileged? 

When it is a simple motion "to Adjourn" and is not 
qualified in any way. 

418. What is the form? 

"Madam Chairman, I move that the assembly (meeting 
or club, etc.) do now adjourn," or "that we adjourn." 

419. What is its status and when is it in order? 

It precedes all other motions except to Fix the Time and 
Place to which to Adjourn and with a few exceptions it is 
in order whenever a member can secure the floor to make it. 

420. What is its object and the reason for its high rank? 
It is given high rank and privilege because the right of 

an assembly to close its meetings and desist from its labors 
is as inalienable as its right to meet at will. The object is 
to enable the assembly to exercise this right at its pleasure. 

421. What must it be understood to mean when it is made 
at any but the final meeting of an annual session of a perma- 
nent organization? 

That there is to be a reassembling at a specified time 
according to program. Fox 126. 

422. When is the motion to Adjourn out of order? 

It cannot be made while a member has the floor, or 
when a vote is being taken, or verified, or when the Previous 
Question has been ordered, or when it has just been de- 
feated, or when the time of adjournment has already been 
fixed, or when the motion to Fix the Time to which to Ad- 
journ is pending. Shattuck 180; Hollister 62; Fox 65; Robert 
39 (note). 



89 

423. Can it be debated, reconsidered, have any Subsidiary 
motions applied to it? 

No, it is made, stated and put to vote. 

424. If made once and lost, when can it be renewed? 
After any intervening business. 

425. Is it necessary for the motion to Adjourn to be always 
made from the floor? 

No, if the business is finished, or the hour set has ar- 
rived, the chair may announce as in other matters of routine 
that the meeting stands adjourned. 

426. What is the effect of this motion upon the pending 
business if carried; if lost? 

If lost the interrupted business is immediately resumed. 
If carried, the interrupted business is taken up at the next 
regular meeting of the session under, the head of "Un- 
finished Business," if there is a regular Order of Business. 
If there is no rule for conducting the business it should come 
up after the reading of the minutes. It is resumed at the 
point where it was interrupted. If there are to be no more 
meetings that year (as in case of an annual convention) or 
when the term of service of any or all of the members of 
an elective body expires with the meeting, the business is 
practically killed. It can be introduced at the next session, 
however, as new business just as if it had never been brought 
up before. Robert 37; Shattuck 181. 

427. What questions are in order while a motion to Adjourn 
is pending? 

A motion to Withdraw the motion to Adjourn, A Question 
of Privilege, if urgent, A Parliamentary Inquiry, if neces- 
sary, A motion to Enter a motion to Reconsider on the 
Minutes and the motion to Fix the Time and Place to which 
to Adjourn. 

428. What are Parliamentary Inquiries and when are they 
allowed? 

They are questions addressed to the presiding officer 
concerning the effect of motions that a member may wish 
to make, whether they would be in order or concerning any 
rules or decisions in regard to which the questioner desires 
information. They are really in the nature of privileged 
motions and are allowed at any time except when a member 



90 

is speaking and are always answered by the chair unless 
such answer would anticipate the decision of a point of order. 

429. Should the use of the privileged motion to Adjourn be 
permitted for the evident purpose of obstructing business? 

No, after it has been introduced several times and voted 
down, the chair should refuse to entertain it. 

430. When are the motions to Adjourn and to Fix the Time 
to which to Adjourn the only one that can be acted on? 

In the absence of a Quorum. 

431. What motions are in order whenever a motion to Ad- 
journ is? 

To Fix the Time to which to Adjourn and to Take a 
Recess. 

432. What is the difference between the privileged motion 
"to Adjourn," the unprivileged motion "to Adjourn at a speci- 
fied time," and the highly privileged motion "to Fix a Time 
and Place to which to Adjourn?" 

The first is simply a motion to conclude a meeting at 
once, the second is a motion to arrange in advance for a 
time to conclude a meeting, and the third and last is a mo- 
tion to fix upon a time to meet again. 

433. When does the motion to Adjourn lost its privileged 
character? 

If qualified as to a time to bring the meeting to a close, 
when no time has been fixed or when there is a wish to 
adjourn before the regular time, it is reduced to the standing 
of an independent motion. It can then be debated, amended, 
etc., as any ordinary motion, and yields to all Privileged, 
Incidental and Subsidiary motions except Objection to Con- 
sideration and to Postpone Indefinitely. 

434. What is the form for the unprivileged motion to Ad- 
journ? 

"Madam Chairman, I move that the assembly (meeting, 
club, etc.) adjourn at half-past twelve o'clock." 

435. What effect has a motion to adjourn sine die (without 
day), or a declaration by the chair that an assembly is ad- 
journed sine die? 

Either action dissolves the assembly. This adjournment 
is used when meetings of a temporary character or an as- 
sembly of delegates concludes their work. The former is 



91 

not expected to ever assemble again and any other assembly 
of the same organization will not be composed of the same 
delegates. Reed 127; Cushing 82. 

436. When is a meeting adjourned? 

Not until the motion to adjourn has been properly pre- 
sented and acted upon and the chair has declared the meet- 
ing adjourned. "The meeting is adjourned.' , "The as- 
sembly is adjourned to meet again," (stating the time and 
place). "The meeting is adjourned sine die" (without day). 

References— To Adjourn. Robert 37, 191; Reed 125, 147; 
Cushing 81; Shattuck 179; Hollister 62; Fox 65. 

To Take a Recess. 

437. What motion similar in character ranks with and is 
subject to the same rules as the motion to adjourn? 

To Take a Recess. A recess is really a limited or tem- 
porary adjournment and is in order whenever a motion to 
adjourn is. Like the motion to Adjourn it is privileged if 
unqualified as to the time to terminate the recess which is 
then supposed to be ended by a call to order by the chair 
and subject to such call. The motion may be: "I move that 
a recess be taken subject to the call of the chair," or the 
equivalent motion: "I move that when we adjourn we ad- 
journ subject to the call of the chair." Robert 39. 

(3). Question of Privilege. 

438. What is a Question of Privilege and what is the dif- 
ference between it and a Privileged Question or Motion? 

A Question of Privilege relates to th& rights of an as- 
sembly collectively, "its safety, dignity, and the integrity 
of its proceedings," or to the "rights, reputation and conduct 
of its members individually in their representative capacity." 
It does not relate to the pending business and is itself one 
of a class known as "Privileged Questions," which all have 
high rank because of their immediate importance or urgency. 
House Manual and Digest 278, Par. 653; Reed 150; Robert 
40 (also note). 

439. What is the order of precedence of a Question of 
Privilege, how is it privileged and when is it in order? 

It takes precedence of all other questions except to Ad- 
journ and to Fix the Time to which to Adjourn; if urgent it 



92 

is in order at any time and may interrupt business or a 
speaker. 

440. Who decides whether it is properly a Question of 
Privileges or not, and if the decision is unsatisfactory what 
can be done? 

The chair decides, and any member may appeal from 
the decision of the chair. 

441. How is an Appeal on a Question of Privilege treated? 
In just the same way as an Appeal on a Point of Order. 

442. Must a Question of Privilege be disposed of at once? 
If allowed as a proper Question of Privilege, a motion 

is in order to bring it before the body for immediate dis* 
cussion. Sometimes it is adjusted by request of the chair 
without action. Unless urgent, its consideration may be 
postponed or it can be laid on the table or referred to a com- 
mittee or postponed indefinitely. Any of these Subsidiary 
motions may be applied to it (also the previous question) 
without affecting the main question. 

443. Can a Question of Privilege be amended or reconsidered 
and when is it undebatable? 

Can be amended and reconsidered. Is undebatable only 
when made after debate on the main question has been 
closed. 

444. What is resumed after it is acted upon? 

The interrupted business — a member interrupted retain- 
ing the right to the floor. 

445. When does a Question of Privilege lose its privileged 
character? 

When brought up again after being postponed, com- 
mitted or laid on the table. It is then no longer urgent, 
therefore no longer privileged and is to be treated as any 
ordinary motion. 

446. Is rising to make a personal explanation a Question 
of Privilege? 

No, but as a matter of courtesy it is usually allowed. 
If objection is made, allowing it must be put to vote. Robert 
190 (note). 

447. What order do these questions take among themselves? 
Those concerning the body as a whole take precedence 

of those concerning an individual member. Reed 131. 



93 

Examples of a Question of Privilege. 

Affecting a Member: Leave to withdraw before the close 
of the meeting; to be protected against interruptions or an- 
noying actions on the part of other members; to refute 
charges against character or actions as a member; to make 
a report before the proper time if obliged to leave before 
that time, etc. Affecting the body as a whole: sending tele- 
grams, seating members, unnecessary delays in the progress 
of business, conduct of members, quarrels between members, 
etc. Shattuck 222; Reed 124; Fox 81; Paul 123. 
448. What is the form for raising a Question of Privilege 
and who may raise it? 

Any member may raise it and the form is: "Madam 
Chairman, I rise to a question of privilege (or of privilege 
affecting this body as a whole)," whereupon the 
chair says, "State your question, please." Member states it, 
and sits. 

Illustration: "Madam President, I rise to a question of 
privilege." 

The Chair: "Please state your question." 
Member: "I am sorry to say that there is such a dis- 
turbance in this immediate vicinity that those of us who are 
interested and wish to hear the arguments on this question 
are unable to do so." 

The Chair: "It is the right of all to hear what is being 
said from the floor and the members who are making the 
disturbance will please come to order." 

References.— Questions of Privilege. Robert 40,190; 
Reed 130; dishing 82; Shattuck 219; Fox 81; Hollister 36. 

Orders of the Day. 

449. What are Orders of the Day? 

Such questions as are assigned to certain days for con- 
sideration. On the particular day to which they are assigned 
they become "the Orders of the Day. 

450. How are they made? 

May be made' on motion, by program, standing rule, 
postponement or any proper method of agreement. 

451. If an Order of the Day is called for at the time speci- 
fied, must it be considered then? 

No, the Order was satisfied by the call. The call cannot 
be tabled, etc., and is to be put immediately to vote but the 



94 

order or question involved, when called up, may then be 
treated as any ordinary question, and is subject to postpone- 
ment, can be laid on the table, etc. 

452. What two classes are they divided into and what vote 
is required? 

They are either General or Special, the term "Orders of 
the Day" covering both classes. General Orders, such as the 
Order of Business, program, etc., are generally fixed by stand- 
ing rules or by-laws, but may also be made on motion at any 
time by a majority vote or by postponing questions to a cer- 
tain day. A question which is of such importance as to de- 
mand precedence or interruption of regular business is usu- 
ally made a Special Order by use of the motion provided for 
that purpose. Very often an hour as well as a day is named 
for a Special Order but if no hour is named the proper place 
for it in the Order of Business is immediately after the read- 
ing of the minutes. A two-thirds vote is required to make a 
Special Order. 

453. What is their order of precedence? 

Special Orders take precedence of General Orders and 
of all business except the reading of the minutes unless an 
hour has been fixed for their consideration. The Orders in 
General take precedence of all questions except Special Or- 
ders, Questions of Privilege and the motions to Reconsider, 
to Adjourn and to Fix the Time to which to Adjourn. Hol- 
lister 65; Robert 43. 

454. How may the Orders of the Day be called for? 

When the proper time comes the presiding officer may 
bring them up, but if not brought up by the chair any member 
may call for them, 

455. If not taken up on the day specified what happens to an 
Order of the Day? 

It falls to the ground ancl must be renewed in the regu- 
lar way if it is to be considered at all, but if called for and 
lost it cannot be renewed. 

456. What forms are used by the chair and by members for 
calling up the Orders of the Day? 

Chair: "Shall the Orders of the Day be taken up?" or, 
"Will the assembly now proceed to the Orders of the Day?" 
or, "If there is no objection, the hour having arrived, we will 
proceed to the Orders of the Day." Member: "Madam Chair- 
man, I call for the Orders of the Day?" 



95 

457. If there is Objection how is it made? 

"Madam Chairman, I object to taking up the Orders of 
the Day until we have decided the very important question 
now pending." The Chair: "Objection is made to taking up 
the Orders of the Day. Will the assembly now proceed to 
the Orders of the Day?" or, "Shall the Orders of the Day be 
taken up?" 

458. What is the effect of an affirmative vote upon the 
question, "Shall the Orders of the Day be taken up?" 

A vote in the affirmative removes the question under 
consideration at the time just as if it had been interrupted 
by an adjournment and it comes up at the next meeting as 
"Unfinished Business." A negative vote dispenses with the 
Orders of the Day only until the pending question is decided. 

459. What vote is required to call an Order of the Day up 
before the time assigned, or out of order? 

A two-thirds vote. 

460. If there are more general orders than one how are 
they to be taken up? 

Collectively and considered in the order made. A motion 
to take up a certain part of the Orders is not a privileged 
motion. 

461. Can a Call for the Orders of the Day be debated, 
amended or reconsidered? 

No, but the Orders or question brought before the as- 
sembly by the call or motion may be debated, postponed, 
etc., as any ordinary motion. 

462. What form is used to make a Special Order? 

"I move that the question (stating it) be made a Special 
Order for (naming a day or both a day and an hour)." "I 
move that further consideration of this question (stating 
it) be postponed until Monday, Jan. 15, at 3:30 o'clock." (See 
Question 277, Lesson IV.) 

463. If there are more Special Orders than one how are 
they taken up? 

Collectively and in the order of their assignment. (See 
Question 279, Lesson IV.) 

464. What high privileges has a special order? 

May interrupt a speaker or be called for while a com- 
mittee report is being made, and suspends all rules which 
interfere with its consideration at the time specified. Gen- 
eral orders cannot interfere with established rules. 



96 

Illustration of an Order of the Day Made by a Standing Rule. 

(General Order.) 

"At every fourth meeting of the club the first half hour 
of the time shall be given to a discussion of Current Events; 
at the expiration of this half hour the regular Order of Bus- 
iness shall be resumed." At the end of the half hour it would 
be the duty of the presiding officer to interrupt the discus- 
sion of Current Events and take up the first item on the 
regular Order of Business and if she did not any member 
could call for the Orders of the Day. Current Events are 
the Order of the Day for that first half hour, the regular 
Order of Business contains the Orders for the remainder of 
the time. 

References — Orders of the Day. Robert 41, 186; Reed 
189; Cushing 83; Shattuck (Order Business) 31; (Special 
Assignments) 129; Fox 76; Hollister 65. 

DRILL. 

A. Practice the forms for making the Privileged Motions. 
The Main Motions below are all proceded by member 

rising and addressing chair, being recognized and thereby 
obtaining the floor as in Lesson I and the first example 
as follows: 

B. A Motion and One Amendment; Inserting: 

Mrs. Adams (rising and addressing the Chair) : "Madam 
President." The Chair, "Mrs. Adams." (Mrs. Adams is 
recognized and has the floor) Mrs. Adams: "I move that 
our club give a luncheon." (Resumes seat). Mrs. Brooks 
(rising to be recognized if in a large meeting, remaining 
seated if meeting is small) "I second the motion." The 
Chair: "It has been moved and seconded that the club give 
a luncheon. The question is before you for discussion. Mrs. 
Calloway: "Madam President." The Chair: "Mrs. Callo- 
way." Mrs. Calloway: "I move to amend by inserting the 
word 'annual' before the word 'luncheon.'" Mrs. Duncan: 
"I second the amendment." The Chair: "It has been moved 
to amend by inserting the word 'annual' before the word 
'luncheon.' The question is on the adoption of the amend- 
ment (debate). Are you ready for the question? (no further 
remarks or amendments being offered). All in favor of the 
amendment will say aye. (Ayes respond.) All opposed say 



97 

no. (Noes respond.) The ayes have it and the amendment 
is carried. The question now recurs on the motion as 
amended, that the club give an annual luncheon. Are there 
any remarks? (pause and gives opportunity). Are you ready 
for the question? All in favor of the motion as amended 
please say aye. Those opposed, no. The ayes have it and 
the motion is carried." 

C. Motion and One Amendment; Striking Out: 

"I move that the club take up the study of art and arch- 
itecture next year." "I move to amend by striking out the 
word 'architecture/ " 

D. Motion and One Amendment; Striking out and insert- 
ing: 

"I move that our society undertake to furnish a complete 
equipment for one of the minor industries at the Boys' In- 
dustrial School." "I move to amend by stiking out the words 
'one of the minor industries' and inserting the words 'the 
manual training department' so that the motion will read 
'that our society undertake to furnish a complete equipment 
for the manual training department of the Boys' Industrial 
School." 

E. Motion and Two Amendments: 

Main Motion: "I move that our club give a luncheon 
annually." First Amendment: "I move to amend by elimi- 
nating the word 'annually' and adding the words 'semi-an- 
nually' and that each member shall be privileged to invite 
a guest." Second Amendment: "I move to amend the 
amendment by striking out the words 'a guest' and inserting 
the words 'two guests.'" The Chair: "It is moved to amend 
the amendment by striking out the words 'a guest' and insert- 
ing the word 'two guests' in their stead, so that the amend- 
ment will read 'that each member shall be privileged to in- 
vite two guests.' Are there any remarks? (Pauses for de- 
bate). Are you ready for the question? The motion is 
carried. The question now recurs upon the amendment as 
amended 'semi-annually and that each member be privileged 
to invite two guests.' (discussion, vote taken, motion car- 
ried) The vote now recurs on the motion as amended 'that 
the club give a luncheon semi-annually and that each mem- 
ber be privileged to invite two guests.' Any remarks? All 
in favor, etc. The noes have it and the motion is lost.'" 
Lesson II. 



LESSON VII. 

Incidental Motions: Questions or Points of Order and Ap- 
peals, A Call for the Reading of Papers, A Call for the 
Suspension of a Rule, Technical Motions Classified Ac- 
cording to Object, Miscellaneous Motions that are in 
General Use. 

"The right of Appeal is indispensable to the free action 
of all assemblies, the presiding officer not being the master, 
but the servant." — Warrington. 



465. What are Incidental Motions or Questions and what is 
their status? 

They are such questions as arise naturally out of other 
questions or ,out of the need for conducting business in an 
orderly manner. They take precedence of the questions out 
of which they arise and are to be decided before those ques- 
tions. They precede the Subsidiary Motions and yield to 
the Privileged Motions but have no order of precedence 
among themselves consequently if one is pending another 
of the class cannot be made until that is disposed of. 

466. Can Incidental Motions be amended or debated? 

They cannot be amended and the only one that can be 
debated is an appeal and that is debatable or not according 
to circumstances. Robert 34. 

467. How many Incidental Motions are in common use and 
should therefore be memorized? 

Five, as follows: (1) Questions or Points of Order, and 
the Appeal, (2) Objection to the Consideration of a Question, 
(3) A Call for the Reading of Papers, (4) Leave to Withdraw 
a Motion, (5) Suspension of the Rules. Robert 35; Hollister 
44; Neeley 78; Smith Chart; Bethel 8. 

NOTE. 

Only five out of the seventeen or eighteen authorities 
consulted agree upon and classify as Incidental the same 
group of motions, which are those listed above. The differ- 
ences of opinion while not very serious are too numerous 
for inclusion in these lessons. In view of the differences 



99 

and the fact that no short list would suffice for all the ques- 
tions that might arise "incidentally out of another" it is re- 
commended that the nature and uses of an Incidental ques- 
tion be carefully studied and that any question of that char- 
acter, when the necessity for it arises, be given the right of 
way accorded to motions of its class. Many such motions 
are mentioned in all manuals and yet not classified, for ex- 
ample: To take up Seriatim; to Open or to Close Nomina- 
tions, to Extend or Limit Debate, etc. 

References — Incidental Motions. Robert 34; Reed 132, 
142; Cushing 86, 92; Hollister 44. 

(1.) Questions, or Points of Order and the Appeal. 

468. What is the duty of the chair and the right of mem- 
bers? 

It is the duty of the chair to establish and to maintain 
order of procedure and of behavior as well; therefore any 
member who is guilty of a breach of order or of a parlia- 
mentary error should be called to order. If the chair fails to 
do this it is the right of any member to raise a Question or 
Point of Order. 

469. What is a Question or Point of Order and how does it 
differ from a Question of Privilege? 

It is an Incidental Question relating to the matter in 
hand and arising out of its consideration in proper order. 
The Question of Privilege relates to some matter outside. of 
or foreign to the matter in hand, while the Point of Order 
relates strictly to the conduct of the business before the 
meeting, such as methods, rules, parliamentary procedure, 
behavior of members, etc. 

470. Can it be made while a main motion is pending and may 
it interrupt a speaker? 

Yes. 

471. What is the form for making or "raising" the Point 
of Order and what is its effect upon the pending business? 

"Madam President, I rise to a Point of Order," or if a 
member is disorderly, "I call the member to order." All bus- 
iness is suspended until the Point of Order is decided, and is 
then resumed. 

472. Must the floor be obtained for either a Question of 
Privilege or a Point of Order? 

No. 



100 

473. Is a Point of Order debatable and can it be amended 
or reconsidered? 

No. 

474. When does it take precedence of everything except a 
Question of Privilege? 

If made as soon as the occasion for it arises. If not 
made at once it cannot be made at all unless it had given 
way to a Question of Privilege. Shattuck 227; Fox 78; Reed 
143; Robert 46. 

475. What is the proper course for the member who is in- 
terrupted by a Point of Order to pursue? 

Parliamentary etiquette requires that she should take her 
seat immediately. The right to the floor and to resume the 
interrupted remarks, as soon as the Point of Order is decided, 
is retained however, unless the member herself has been 
ruled out of order, in which case the floor can only be had 
again by vote. Robert 46. 

476. Who decides whether the Point of Order is "well taken" 
or not? 

The chair decides and the decision is called " a Ruling" 
"The Chair Rules," etc. 

477. Must the chair always decide a Point of order? 
While it is the duty of the chair to decide and best for 

her to do so, if in doubt she may ask the advice of members 
before deciding, but the advice must be given sitting in order 
to avoid the appearance of debate; the chair may also refer 
the Point of Order at once to the assembly. 

478. What recourse is provided if the chair is in error on 
a Point of Order? 

If the member is not satisfied with the "ruling" an Ap- 
peal may be taken by rising and saying, "I appeal from the 
decision of the chair," or "I respectfully appeal . . ." etc. 

479. Can a motion be ruled out of .order after it has been 
debated without objection? 

No. 

The Appeal. 

480. Can an Appeal be taken while a main question is pend- 
ing and may it interrupt a speaker? 

Yes. 

481. When must an appeal be made? 

As soon as the decision of the chair is rendered. 



101 

482. What prevents the taking of an Appeal? 

It cannot be taken while a motion to Adjourn or another 
Appeal is pending or while voting is in progress. Robert 46. 

483. If another Point of Order is raised while an Appeal is 
pending can an Appeal be taken from the decision of the 
chair on the second Point of Order? 

No; any Points of Order that come up under an Appeal 
must be decided by the chair and the decisions must be 
accepted as final. Paul 11. 

484. How is an Appeal decided and to whom is it addressed? 
It is addressed to a higher authority than the chair, 

namely; the assembly, which by a majority vote either sus- 
tains or overrules the chair. Shattuck 229. 

485. What is the form and process in taking an Appeal? 
Member arises and without waiting to be recognized will 

say, simply, "I appeal from the decision of the chair," or 
"I respectfully appeal . . ." 

486. What is the form used by the chair in putting an 
Appeal to vote? 

"The decision of the chair is appealed from (or ques- 
tioned). Shall the decision of the chair be sustained ?" or 
'Shall the decision of the chair stand as the judgement of 
the body?" 

487. What is the result of a tie vote on an Appeal? 
Sustains the chair by deciding in the affirmative the ques- 
tion: "Shall the decision of the chair stand, etc. . . ." 
(A tie vote in all other cases defeats or negatives a motion.) 
Robert 45. 

488. Can the motion to Lay on the Table be limited to an 
Appeal without affecting the main question? 

Yes, it cuts off debate and if it carries the decision of 
the chair is sustained until the Appeal is taken from the 
table. 

489. Can the Previous Question be applied to it alone? 
Yes. if the Appeal is debatable. 

490. Can an Appeal be reconsidered? 

Yes, but not if action that cannot be reversed has been 
taken under it. 

491. Once decided can an Appeal be renewed? 

No, not even if later developments indicate that a dif- 
ferent vote would be the result. 



102 

492. When is an Appeal undebatable and when is it open 
to debate? 

It is undebatable when an undebatable question is pend- 
ing, when it relates to the priority of business or to inde- 
corum or to a violation of the rules of speaking or if the 
Previous Question was pending at the time the Appeal was 
taken. At other times it is open to debate after the chair 
has put the question: "Shall the chair be sustained," and 
the member taking the Appeal has explained why it was 
made and the chair has given the reasons for the decision 
upon which the Appeal was taken. When debatable it is 
subject to the usual rules. 

493. What privilege has the chair in relation to an Appeal 
from her decision? 

May give her reasons for the decision without leaving 
the chair, whether the Appeal is debatable or not. . Robert 46. 

494. How do Questions of Privilege and Points of Order 
differ from motions? 

They are decided by the chair and not submitted to the 
assembly for discussion and vote unless an Appeal from the 
decision of the chair is taken. 

References — Questions or Points of Order and the Ap- 
peal. Robert 46, 188; Reed 133, 143; Gushing 86; Shattuck 
226; Fox 78; Hollister 34. 

(2.) Objection to Consideration. 

(See Lesson I, Questions 48-60.) 

(3.) A Call for the Reading of Papers. 

495. What papers are meant? 

(1.) Papers under consideration, such as a report, reso- 
lution or communication, etc., upon which some action is to 
be taken, and (2.) papers bearing on the subject under con- 
sideration. 

496. How is a call for the Reading of Papers treated? 
Usually as in routine matters the chair will say, "If there 

is no objection the paper called for will be read." 'If There 
is objection the call must be put to vote. "The question is 
on the adoption of the motion that the paper (naming sub- 
ject, etc.) be read/' etc. 

497. How often should a paper which is laid before an or- 
ganization for action be read before a vote is taken on it? 



103 

It is essential that the subject matter of such a paper 
should be understood before being voted on. Therefore 
any member has the right to have it read once, at least. In 
fact, it would seem to be the duty of the chair to make sure 
that the matter is understood before any action is taken on 
it, and to that end a second, ,or even a third, reading, in 
part at least, might well be allowed, especially if the matter 
is important; it being much better to do a few things well 
than many things without due consideration. If, however, 
the proposition in the paper is not to be discussed or acted 
on, if any one objects to the reading, allowing it must be put 
to vote. 

498. What is the custom in legislatures and other large 
bodies where a great many papers, documents, etc., are 
received? 

To refer them first to a committee and when reported 
upon by the committee they are subject to a limited number 
of readings, usually three, but they are seldom read in their 
entirety that many times. 

499. Can a call for the Reading of Papers be debated or 
amended? 

No. 

References — Reading of Papers. Robert 48; Cushing 88; 
Reed 136; Hollister 66; Fox 72. 

(4.) Withdrawal of a Motion. 
(See Lesson I, Questions 61-74.) 

(5.) Suspension of the Rules. 

500. What is the form for this motion? 

"I move that the rule (stating the one referred to) which 
interferes with (stating the object of the suspension) be 
suspended," or "I move to suspend the rule . . ." etc. 

501. What rules may be suspended and why? 

Only Rules , of Order and Standing Rules, such as 
relate to the transaction of business, conduct of meetings, 
etc., and never to constitutional requirements, or established 
parliamentary principles or special statutes unless they exist 
as Standing Rules. The rules mentioned as being subject 
to suspension are so subject because, although rules are 
necessary to prevent waste of time and to promote business, 
there are times when they stand in the way of thorough 



104 

consideration and proper action. In such cases it is better 
to suspend them. By general consent the rules may be 
ignored at any time without a motion. Robert 188. 

502. Can a motion to Suspend the Rules be made while a 
member has the floor? 

No. 

503. Can it be debated, amended or reconsidered? 

Cannot be debated or reconsidered and no Subsidiary 
Motion can be applied to it. 

504. Can it be renewed at the same meeting? 

Not for the same purpose, but can be, after an adjourn- 
ment, even if the next meeting is the same day. 

505. What vote is required to Suspend a Rule? 
A two-thirds vote. 

NOTE. 

Eleven out of Seventeen authorities require the two- 
thirds vote while several others, among them Reed, Cushing 
and Shattuck, assert that while it is . customary to adopt 
a rule requiring a two-thirds vote, unless there is such a rule 
unanimous consent is necessary. Those requiring the two- 
thirds vote are: Robert, Fox, Hollister, Neeley, Stevens, 
Roberts, Bethel, Lewis, Warrington, Smith, Paul. 

506. Can a subordinate body suspend the rules of a higher 
body? 

No. 

References — Suspension of the Rules. Robert 50, 158, 
188; Reed 50; Cushing 22, 91; Shattuck 248; Hollister 60; 
Fox 71. 

TECHNICAL MOTIONS. 

Classified According to Their Object. 

To modify or improve: — To Amend; To Commit or Refer, to 
Recommit. 

To defer action: — To Postpone; To Lay on the Table. 

To hasten action, or suppress debate or bring to a vote: — 
Call for the Previous Question; a Motion or an Order 
to Limit or to Close Debate. 

To suppress a question: — Objection to Consideration; Post- 
pone Indefinitely. 



105 

To reverse hasty or ill considered action or to consider a 
second time: — To Reconsider. 

To close meetings or to arrange for meeting again: — Ad- 
journ; Fix the Time and Place to Which to Adjourn. 

To secure consideration at a certain time: — To make a ques- 
tion a Special or a General Order (Orders of the Day) ; 
To Postpone to a Definite Time. 

To expedite business with which a rule interferes: — Suspen- 
sion of Rule, or Rules. 

To preserve order of procedure or of behavior: — Questions 
or Points of Order. 

To secure to the body and to its members certain rights and 
privileges: — An Appeal; Reading of Papers; Withdrawal 
of Motion; Question of privilege and motion of like 
character. Robert 175. 

Miscellaneous Motions. 

Motions that are in General Use that are not classified 
as Subsidiary, Privileged or Incidental. Some may be made 
incidentally while the main motion is pending, others are 
made independently as main or principle motions: 

Filling Blanks; For Informal Consideration; To Go into 
Committee of the Whole; To Go into Executive Session; 
To Recommit; To Reconsider; To Renew; To Rescind; To 
Expunge; To Ratify; To Take a Recess; To Limit, Extend 
or Close Debate; To Take up Out of Order; To Give Leave 
to Speak Out of Order or after Disorderly Conduct; To Take 
from the .Table; To Provide for the Manner of Voting; To 
Close Nominations; To Divide a Question; To Enter in the 
Minutes; To Place on File; To Receive, to Accept or to Adopt 
a Report. 

DRILL, 

A. Practice the forms for making the Incidental Motions. 

B. Objection to Consideration, a Point of Order and 
Withdrawal: 

Mrs. Simmons: "I move that the Butterfly Club be cen- 
sured for serving refreshments at its so-called 'literary meet- 
ings.' " Mrs. French: "I object to the consideration of that 
question." Mrs. Simmons: "The question is a perfectly 



106 

proper one, Madam President, as a body of serious minded 
. . . /' Member (rising): "Madam President I rise to a 
point of order." The chair: "State your point." Member: 
"The objection to consideration permits of no debate." The 
Chair: "The point is well taken. Consideration of the 
question is objected to, shall the question be discussed?" 
Mrs. Simmons (rising and interrupting): "Madam Presi- 
ident." The Chair: "Mrs. Simmons." Mrs. Simmons: "I 
ask leave to withdraw the motion." The Chair: "If there 
is no objection the motion is withdrawn." Lesson I. 
C. Division: 

The following motion offered: 

"Inasmuch as it is the duty of the women of Mobile to 
use their efforts for a clean city, hygienically, morally and 
socially, I move that all organized bodies ,of women 
and all individual women of our city be asked to 
co-operate for this purpose, and that joint committees 
be appointed to . inspect, from time to time, the city 
streets, poor house, jail, hospital, markets, moving pic- 
ture shows and other places of amusement, and report to this 
club and to the other organizations as to the condition of 
the same; that these reports, or such parts of them as seem 
suitable, be published, in order that the public may have the 
benefit of the information therein contained; and that the 
united organizations take active steps to secure the enforce- 
ment of such city ordinances, relating to any of the above 
mentioned places, as already exist, and the passage of suit- 
able ordinances where there are none covering these matters." 

Member obtains floor and moves that "the question be 
divided into three proposition, the first to end with the words 
'condition of the same,' the second with the words 'therein 
contained/ and the third with the concluding words of the 
motion." The chair: "You have heard the motion to divide 
and the proposed division so that each of the three proposi- 
tions can be considered alone. All in favor of division will 
say aye. The ayes have it and the motion to divide is adopted. 
The question, is on the proposition 'that all organized bodies 
. . . . condition of the same/ (discussion, vote, adopted.) 
The question is now on the adoption of the second proposi- 
tion: 'that these reports, or such parts of them .... therein 
contain/ " The third proposition is then taken up and after 



107 

its adoption or rejection, as the case may be, the motion as a 
whole is considered adopted without any further vote. Les- 
son I: 

D. Substitute Motion: 

Mrs. A. "I move that we petition the school commis- 
sioners to appoint women to vacancies on the board as they 
occur." 

Mrs. B. "I move to amend by adding the words 'until 
at least three of the members of the board shall be women,' 
so that ..•".*" 

Mrs. C. "I move to amend the amendment by striking 
out the words 'three members' and inserting the words 'half 
the membership, ' so that the motion will read 'that we peti- 
tion the school commissioners to appoint women to vacancies 
on the board as they occur until at least half the membership 
shall be women.' " 

Mrs. D. "I move as a substitute for the motion relating 
to women on the school board that we petition the school 
commissioners to appoint an advisory committee consisting 
of three women, this committee to visit and report upon the 
Kindergartens." 

Miss E. "I move to amend the substitute by adding the 
words 'and playgrounds and, that they also inspect and report 
upon the sanitary conditions generally of such parts .of the 
school buildings and grounds as are used by the children of the 
Kindergarten and primary grades,' so that the motion will 
read . . . ." 

In the above illustration Mrs. C.'s amendment ■ to the 
amendment) is first voted on, then (2) Miss B.'s amendment 
(the amendment to the Main Motion); after that (3) Mrs. 
E.'s amendment to the substitute motion, all of which are 
supposed to be adopted. There are now left, the Main Mo- 
tion as amended and the substitute motion as amended. 
(4) The Chair: "The question now recurs on the 
substitute motion as amended. .(Debate). All in favor 
of the substitute as amended say aye. All opposed, 
no. The noes have it and the motion is lost. (5) The ques- 
tion now recurs on the main motion as amended. Are there 
any remarks? Are you ready for the qnestion? All in favor 
.... The main motion is adopted as amended." (See Les- 
son II.) 



LESSON VIII. 

To Commit; The Committee and Its Report; Committee of 
the Whole; Informal Consideration. 

"It is by division and subdivision of duties alone, that all 
matters, great and small, can be managed to perfection." — 
Jefferson. 



507. What is the meaning and effect of aa Motion to Commit 
or to Refer to a Committee? 

It is a motion to transfer a measure under consideration 
to a smaller number of members than the whole body. This 
smaller group is called a Committee. 

508. What is its rank, can it be debated and what Subsidiary 
Motions can b*-. applied to it? 

It is fourth in the order of precedence of the Subsidiary 
Motions. It is debatable and opens the main question to 
debate. It can be amended by changing the personnel of 
the committee or by stating or changing the number of 
membe s to serve on it, or by adding instructions as to what 
the committee is to do and how, etc. It cannot be postponed, 
to a definite time or indefinitely, or committed, or laid on 
the table. 

509. What is the form? 

"I move to refer the question to a committee;" or "That 
the resolution be referred," etc., "I move to refer the matter 
to a committee of three," "to be appointed by the chair," 
or the mover may name the committee: "to a committee 
composed of Mesdames Long, Robinson and Marsh." 

510. Can it be reconsidered or renewed? 

It may be reconsidered if done at once, before the com- 
mittee is formed or has taken up its work, afterwards the 
committee may, however, be discharged. (See Question 569.) 
If lost it may be renewed after progress in debate or the 
intervention business. Reed 149; Shattuck 195; Hollister 
68 (j), 59; Robert 72. 

511. Can the motion to commit be applied to a part of a 
question? 



109 

Any intrinsic part may be committed, for verbal im- 
provement, for example, discussion on other parts being con- 
tinued but final action on the whole deferred until the part 
committed is reported back. Shattuck 199; Cushing 54. 

512. When any of the superior, subsidiary or dependent mo- 
tions are. moved on the main question while a motion to Com- 
mit is pending what is the effect upon it? 

It is cut off, made nugatory, by the Previous Question 
and deferred by the others. Shattuck 194. 

NOTE. 

Robert and Hollister consider that the motion to Commit 
adheres to the main question just as amendments do and 
that if it is pending it is not cut off by the Previous Ques- 
tion and must be put to vote in regular order, but as Mrs. 
Shattuck says (92, 93), although debate upon the amendments 
is closed and no new ones can be offered the pending amend- 
ments are not cut off, because they tend to perfect the main 
question. There seems, however, to be no good reason why 
the motion to Commit should adhere, because it is only a 
method of handling the question and the assembly ought to 
know whether it wants to come to an immediate vote or to 
refer to a committee and if it desires the latter it can defeat 
the previous question which only cuts off the motions to com- 
mit, postpone, etc., if carried. Mrs. Shattuck's opinion is 
concurred in by the author of these Lessons. (See note. under 
Question 216, Lesson III.) 

513. Can the Previous Question be applied to the motion 
to Commit without affecting the main question? 

Yes. Hollister 68 (e) ; Shattuck 93; Fish 72; Stevens 
169; Waples 144; Roberts 52; Par. 786 House Manual (1912). 

514. If to Commit is moved on an amendment what ie the 
effect? 

If adopted it takes the main question to the committee 
also. An amendment adheres to the main motion and cannot 
be separated from it. 

515. Can a motion to Commit be divided? 

Yes, but if the motion is divided info two or more parts 
the instructions cannot be separated from the body of the 
motion and put to vote but they may be stricken out by 
f mendment. 



110 

516. How does the motion to "Form a Committee'' or to 
appoint one differ from the motion to refer to a committee? 

A motion "that a committee be formed. to . . ." or "that a 
committee be appointed to . . ." is an independent motion 
unrelated to any other and has the same standing as any other 
independent or main motion. The motion creates a com- 
mittee for a specified purpose and in it, as in the motion 
to refer a matter to a committee, may be included the num- 
ber of members, manner of appointment, duties of the com- 
mittee, etc. Shattuck 201. 

517. What is a motion to Recommit and what is its standing? 
It is a motion to again put into the hands of the same, 

or another, committee a question which has been , pre- 
viously committed and reported upon. To Recommit to the 
same committee of course revives the committee. It is sub- 
ject to the same rules and conditions as the motion < to commit. 

518. When a subject is recommitted what is omitted from the 
reconsideration ? 

Such parts as were not agreed to by the assembly when 
the first committee submitted its report. These are as if they 
had never existed. Robert 87. 

519. What Motions cannot be Committed? 

To Suspend the Rules; To Adjourn (privileged); Ob- 
jection to Consideration; To Lay on the Table; Previous 
Question; To Fix the Time to Which to Adjourn (privileged). 

References — To Commit. Robert 63, 117; Reed 85, 119, 
141; Cushing 44, 52, 96; Shattuck, Chapt. XVII. 194; Hollister 
67; Fox 57, 61, ,102. 

The Committee and Its Report. 

520. What is a Committee and why is it needed? 

A Committee is a small group of members selected for 
special work. It is a dependent body, subject to the asso- 
ciation appointing it and accountable only for what it is de- 
tailed to do. Its acts are not usually final but are to be 
passed upon by the whole body. To refer a matter to a 
committee secures for it greater freedom of consideration 
and enables the association at large to accomplish more. 
Committees are essential in legislative and other assemblies 
where there is a great deal to be done and in many large 
organizations every thing of any moment that is brought up 
is first handled by a committee, and put in good shape for 



Ill 

final action before being presented. Committee consideration 
tends to protect a society from action based upon insufficient 
information and from being carried away by excitement or 
sentiment. 

521. Ordinary committees are divided into how maany kinds? 
Two: Standing and Select, or Special. Standing Com- 
mittees are permanent and take precedence of Select, which 
are temporary. Robert 64; Reed 53; Cushing 139. 

522. What are the duties and functions of these committees? 
Standing Committees are usually appointed for a session, 

or one year and are put in charge of specified subjects, and 
all matters relating to those subjects are properly referred 
to the committees in charge. The .functions of standing 
committees should be clearly defined in the by-laws. It is 
well to state also of how many members each is to be com- 
posed and the manner of their selection. A special or tem- 
porary committee is chosen to take care of some special 
temporary matter, it ceases to exist as soon as its report is 
presented. 

523. What other committees are there? 

Joint Committees, Conference Committees and Committee 
of the Whole. A Joint Committee in a legislative body is 
one committee made up of members of both branches and 
reporting to both; it may be either standing or special, that 
is, permanent or temporary. A, Conference Committee in a 
legislative body is a committee appointed to meet a similar 
committee of the other branch to promote joint action or to 
bring agreement out of disagreement. Non-legislative bodies 
working along similar lines in the same state or municipality 
might often employ joint and conference committees with 
advantage to the work and to themselves. 

524. How many committees be obtained? 

They may be appointed by the presiding officer, by reso- 
lution, by open nomination and vote, or by ballot. They are 
rarely selected by ballot because this method consumes so 
much time. As a general thing a newly elected president 
appoints all standing committees, but none can be created 
without the authority of the assembly given by standing rule 
or direct vote nor can the membership be appointed without 
such authority. 



112 

525. What should be done when there is no rule? 

Where there is no standing rule as to the manner of 
appointment the chair should ask, "How shall the committee 
be appointed ?" and this is frequently decided informally. 
Another question to be asked is, "Of what number shall the 
committee consist?" if the number is not named in the motion 
creating the committee. This is decided as in filling blanks. 
Robert 64. 

526. If the number of nominations for committee members 
does not exceed the number of which the committee is to 
consist how are they voted on? 

Collectively. If they exceed the number they are voted 
on singly. Robert 65. 

527. If the chair has authority to appoint must the appoint- 
ments be made at once? 

Unless the matter is urgent this need not be done at 
once, time may be taken to consider and make suitable se- 
lections, in which case the chair may say "The appointments 
will be made later." If appointed after the close of a session 
the secretary should be notified so that the names may be 
entered on the records. 

528. Of how many and of whom should a committee be com- 
pose if for action; if for investigation? 

The general rule is that a committee, taken as a whole, 
should represent the different views of the membership on 
the subject committed; but if the committee is for action 
it should be small and should consist as far as possible of 
those in favor of, or at least not opposed to, the measure 
committed. For investigation or deliberation it should be 
as representative of the different views of the whole as is 
practicable. If two factions exist the rights of the minority 
demand that they shall have, representation. Reed 58; Cush- 
ing 144; Robert 169. 

529. What should a member do who is appointed on a com- 
mittee that is required to take action of which she does not 
approve? 

Should ask to be excused. 

530. After the members of a committee have been selected 
and the number decided upon can any other members be 
legally added? 



113 

No, but if members resign the presiding officer usually 
fills the vacancies, unless a rule has been adopted in regard 
to filling vacancies. 

531. What duty belongs to the secretary of the assembly in 
regard to the getting together of a committee? 

It is the duty of the secretary to make out a list of the 
committee members with a certified copy of the authority 
or instructions under which they are to act and to give this 
to the chairman. 

532. Must the member who makes the motion that a com- 
mittee be appointed or that a matter be referred to a com- 
mittee be made chairman, or necessarily a member even, of 
the committee ? 

When the presiding officer is given authority to appoint 
she is always at liberty to select the chairman and the mem- 
bership and should be governed • by the question of fitness 
rather than by a mistaken custom of so-called "courtesy." 

533. Is a member made chairman by being named first? 
All authorities agree , that the person first named is 

temporary chairman, at least, and must secure a list of the 
committee members and call the first meeting. The com- 
mittee should then elect a chairman. The chairman is fre- 
quently named by the assembly, but if this is not done or 
the presiding officer does not appoint, or the committee itself 
does not elect a chairman then the member first named is 
chairman. Shattuck 200; Robert 80, 144; Reed 56; Cushing 
145; Fox 42; Hollister 68. 

534. Why should a committee consist of an uneven number? 
To avoid ties in voting. 

535. What is said of the time and place of sitting of a 
committee? 

May be regulated by the committee itself if not done 
by the assembly, but cannot take place while a meeting is 
in progress unless so ordered or permitted by general con- 
sent, upon request. Reed 59; Cushing 146. 

536. If a committee is ordered to meet at a specified time 
and fails to do so what is the result? 

The committee practically falls to the ground and cannot 
act unless redirected. Cushing 147. 

537. If a chairman is absent or neglects or declines to call 
a meeting what may be done? 



114 

Any two members may call it. It is the duty of the 
committee to meet as instructed, or as soon as possible 
if not instructed. 

538. How are committees organized? 

A committee is a minature assembly and is organized in 
the same way: — by the selection of a chairman and a secre- 
tary and other officers if necessary. The secretary may be 
omitted but a record should be kept as the basis for a report 
and if there is no secretary the chairman should make and 
keep the record. Usually in legislative or other large bodies 
where there is much clerical work a secretary is employed. 
This secretary is frequently not a member of the body and 
of course has no vote or voice in the proceedings. 

539. What is the method of procedure of a committee? 
Meetings should be conducted in accordance with parlia- 
mentary usages but are less formal than meetings of the 
whole body. Members speak as often as they wish to the 
same question and, if they choose, without rising. The pre- 
vious question is out of order in committee. Voting is fre- 
quently done informally, but it must be understood that the 
committee really decides by vote, actual or implied, and that 
the vote is binding. All action in order to be valid must be 
taken at a regular meeting to which all are called, it not 
being sufficient for the chairman to consult members sep- 
arately, either personally or by telephone; it is conference that 
is required. The chairman has no more right to act inde- 
pendently than any other member. Shattuck 203; Robert 82, 
170; Reed 61; Cushing 146; Fox 42, 44. 

540. What are its powers when uninstructed? Whin in- 
structed? When given full powers? 

When uninstructed it revises the measure as it thinks 
best, incorporating any amendments that were previously 
adopted by the body and adding such recommendataions as 
it deems advisable, putting all in suitable shape for discus- 
sion and action. When instructed its powers extend only 
to what it is ordered to do. When given "full powers" it is 
authorized to act as if it were an independent body and its 
action is final. 

541. What are the duties of its officers and what the quorum? 
The chairman calls all meetings, presides over them and 

makes all reports unless the committee directs otherwise. 



115 

The secretary keeps a record of any action caken, notifies 
members of meetings, etc., as instructed by the chairman 
or the committee, takes charge of all committee papers or 
documents and turns them over to the secretary of the society 
when the committee is dissolved. The quorum, unless other- 
wise ordered, is a majority of the committee membership. 

542. If the committee is in doubt as to what is expected of 
it what should it do? 

Should ask for instructions or have its functions defined. 

543. What sort of a main question would better be referred 
to a committee? 

One obviously requiring considerable "editing" by divi- 
sion, transposition, consolidation or revision or one in re- 
gard to which more information is desired or one that is 
delicate or troublesome in its nature. Robert 65; Cushing 60. 

544. What does a committee do with a question? 

They carry out their instructions and report back, at 
some future time, the measure as revised by them, adding 
whatever recommendations they see fit. Any document or 
paper intrusted to them must be preserved intact and re- 
turned. Proposed changes should be made on a separate 
sheet. 

545. If amendments to the subject committed are pending 
what becomes of them? 

They go to committee also and are considered and re- 
ported upon, being incorporated in the main question if 
favored by the committee and omitted if not. 

546. What about motions and votes in committee? 

In committee motions need not be made but votes 
would better be taken and a record of them kept. 

547. Has the motion to Reconsider any limit in committee? 
No, provided all who voted with the majority are present 

when the vote is reconsidered. Robert 82. 

548. What difference of treatment is in order in regard to 
resolutions which have been referred to a , committee and 
resolutions that originate with the committee? 

Referred resolutions are not to be voted on by the com- 
mittee as it has no power to adopt them, only such amend- 
ments as the committee may see fit to make are voted on by 
them. Resolutions which originate with the committee and 
amendments to them are voted on in committee in the usual 



ne 

way, amendments first and then the resolutions as amended. 

549. If the committee disagrees what can be done? 

The minority may present a report also. This report 
is read as a matter of courtesy immediately after the ma- 
jority report but need not be acted on. The majority report 
is the committee report but should not be voted on until 
after the reading of the minority report. The minority report 
may, on motion, be offered as a substitute for the committee 
report and is frequently so offered by the member making 
the report for the minority. This is treated as an amendment 
and is not entitled to precedence over any other proposed 
amendments. Shattuck 211; Robert 82, ,171; Fox 50; Reed 
61. 

550. If persons not members are present at committee meet- 
ings can they speak or vote? 

Cannot vote and can speak only by invitation or per- 
mission. 

551. When is a committee expected to report? What may 
be done if it is not ready at the proper time? 

At the earliest opportunity, unless a time was named. 
If not ready it may explain why and ask to be continued, 6r 
discharged as seems best. The assembly may take up the 
matter itself, without waiting for the report, or may place 
it in the hands of another committee. 

552. What is the proper form for the Report? 

The report should be in writing, in concise and simple 
language and as brief as is consistent with clearness, and 
complete covering of all points referred, together with the 
conclusions of the committee concerning them. If it is a 
standing committee the report usually begins as follows: 
"The committee on (Education) beg leave to report," or 
"respectfully report," etc., letting the report follow and con- 
cluding with, "all of which is respectfully submitted," although 
such conclusion is not necessary. A select, or special com- 
mittee report may begin: "The committee to which was 
referred (the matter of incorporation, etc.), having considered 
the same, respectfully report," etc. When a minority report 
is submitted, it states that it is a minority as follows: "The 
undersigned, a minority of a committee to which was re- 
ferred," etc. Reports of any matter of importance should 
be signed by all members present who agree with the report. 



117 

Chairman either first, or last. Ordinary, or routine, reports 
need only be signed by the chairman ("for the committee/') 
There are very good forms for reports in the following man- 
uals: Robert, Shattuck, Fox, Hollister and Paul. 

553. If a committee report is not properly prepared, not 
clearly expressed, or logically arranged, or legible, etc., what 
can the assembly do? 

Is justified in recommitting it for the express purpose or 
having it put in proper shape. Fox 47. 

554. What motions are made in connection with reports, 
communications, resolutions, .etc? 

To Receive; To Accept; To Adopt, Agree to or Concur 
in; To Enter in the Minutes; To Place on File. 

555. Is it necessary to move that a report be received or 
considered? 

No, both reception and consideration are matters of course 
and at the proper time the chair will simply say, "If there is 
no objection the report, etc., will be now read." If there is 
objection the/ question of its reception must be put to vote, 
but there seldom is any. 

556. Is the motion "that a report be received" debatable or 
amendable? 

No. 

557. How may a committee report be called for if the chair 
does not bring it up? 

At the proper time any member may move that the report 
of (naming the committee and the subject) be called for, or 
be now received. 

558. After the reading of a report is any motion necessary 

to bring it before the assembly? 

No, the reception of the report places it before the body 
for action. It is not necessary for the chair to suggest a 
motion that it be adopted, accepted, etc., or to wait for one. 
Immediately after the reading the chair may, as in other 
matters of routine, state the question, which is "upon the 
adoption, etc., of the report," call for discussion, etc., but may, 
if she prefers call for a motion. 

559. Who usually makes such a motion? 

Whoever reads the report, whether the chairman of the 
committee or a member. Some authorities teach that who- 
ever presents the report should move its adoption, accept- 



118 

ance, or whatever is the suitable motion as soon as the read- 
ing is finished. 

560. In what manner and how is the report considered? 
Consideration and action depend upon the character of 

the report. If it is advisory or contains a mere statement of 
facts, opinions or reasoning or an account of work done by 
the committee in carrying out instructions the motion would 
be "that it be accepted. " If it concludes with resolutions 
or recommendations: "That the resolution, etc., be adopted/' 
or "agreed to." It may be discussed as a whole or taken 
up seriatim, (section by section or paragraph or article, etc., 
by paragraph, etc.) The report may be accepted, rejected, 
tabled, postponed, and so on, and the assembly may adopt, 
agree to, amend, reject, etc. the recommendations, resolutions, 
etc. Shattuck 206; Robert 88, 144; Reed 63; Cushing 148; 
Hollister 18, 73; Fox 47. 

561. When is the motion voted on? 

Whether the motion is to accept, agree to or adopt, it 
should never be voted on when first made unless the report 
is ready for final action without discussion, or change. A 
report containing a mere statement of facts, of work done, 
or of information obtained may be accepted at once because 
there is nothing to adopt, or agree to, and the assembly 
is not thereby committed to any course of action or opinion. 
If, however, the report concludes with resolutions, recom- 
mendations, etc., action on the motion to adopt or agree to 
should be suspended until the questions involved have been 
considered one by one (seriatim.) (iSee answer to Question 
564.) 

562. Is it improper to move "that a report be accepted and 
that the recommendations or resolutions be taken up later," 
and to put this motion to vote at once? 

No, the report, as such, cannot be amended and may be 
accepted at once. To accept it only means that the work 
of the committee is accepted as satisfactory, The subject 
for discussion and amendment, the resolutions, etc., are, in 
this motion, so separated from the report that the assembly 
is not committed to any action or opinion by accepting the 
report. A motion "that the report be accepted with thanks 
to the committee for the time and effort given to the work 
and that the resolutions be taken up seriatim" (either now 
or later) is a gracious and a proper motion. 



119 

563. What mistakes are frequently made in connection with 
committee reports? 

To move that a report "be received" after it has been 
presented. If it has been read it has already been received. 
Another mistake is to vote on a motion to "accept" or "to 
adopt" or "to agree to," when the intention is to first con- 
sider, and probably alter, and afterwards adopt, or perhaps 
reject, any matter in the report that is manifestly not ready 
for final action. Robert 86 (note); Cushing 154; Shattuck 
209. 

564. How are constitutions, by-laws, reports with resolutions, 
recommendations, etc., adopted? 

May be adopted as a whole if ready for final action with- 
out debate or amendment, or may be considered and acted 
upon seriatim. If considered seriatim, as is usual, they are 
read by the secretary or the chairman of the committee sec- 
tion by section or paragraph by paragraph beginning with 
the first. As each is read amendments to it may be offered 
or the chair will ask "are there any amendments to this 
section," etc. Only the amendment is voted on at this time 
and not the section as amended. When all the sections have 
been considered in this way any one of the series may be 
still further amended^ until all are in satisfactory shape for 
final adoption. They are then voted on as a whole as amend- 
ed. This second consideration could not be had except by 
a separate motion to reconsider the vote on each separate 
section if each had been adopted on the first reconsideration, 
as amended. 

At the conclusion of the first consideration the chair will 
say, "All the sections having been considered they are now 
open to further amendment, are there any further amend- 
ments?" When they are ready for adoption as a whole, no 
further amendments being offered, the chair will say, "The 
Question is on the adoption of the constitution as a whole, 
are you ready for the question? As many as are in favor of 
the adoption of the constitution (resolutions, etc.), as amend- 
ed, will please say aye," etc. Shattuck 163; Robert 153; 
Reed 94; dishing 151; Fox 116; Hollister 43. 

565. When does an amendment to constitution or by-laws 
become the main motion? 

When amendments are to be made to a constitution, etc., 



120 

previously adopted and in operation these amendments are 
to be considered and treated as main, or independent motions 
and as such are subject to primary and secondary amend- 
ment. 

References — Reception and Adoption of Reports. Robert 
85, 88; Reed 64; Cushing 154; Shattuck 209, 213; Hollister 
73; Fox 47. 

566. What is the place of a committee report in the order 
of business. 

Standing committees usually report just after the read- 
ing of the minutes, special come next. Robert 137. 

567. If not made at the usual time when may it be made? 
When ready the chairman obtains the floor and says, 

"Madam President, the committee on is ready to re- 
port." This may be done at any time when no other business 
has the floor. The chair then asks: "Shall the report of this 

committee be now received ?" or "The committee on ," 

or "to which was referred, is ready to report, if there is no 
objection the report will be now received." If a time is set 
the report should be ready or sufficient reason given. Shat- 
tuck 208, 212; Robert 84; Fox 45; Cushing 150. 

568. What is the relation of the committee to the report 
after it has been received? 

After the reception of a full report the work of a tem- 
porary committee is done and the committee ceases to exist. 
A standing committee "stands" but has no further control 
of the particular matter reported. It may be again referred 
to this committee, however. In debate on the subject the 
committee members usually have preference because of their 
better acquaintance with it. Reed 66; Cushing 152; Robert 
83. 

569. When is a motion in order to discharge a committee? 
When it is found to be not needed, or has failed to per- 
form its duties or when it has made a partial report and ask3 
to be discharged, or the assembly does not wish the work to 
go further or to continue under that committee. 

570. When a report is presented what does it become? 
The basis of action, that is, the course of action recom- 
mended by the committee becomes in fact a new, independent, 
main proposition and is then to be treated like any other 
question. 



121 

571. How are amendments to be acted on? 

Just as in case of an ordinary motion except that the 
amendments proposed by the committee take precedence of 
the others. 

572. Should a preamble be voted on? 

Should be read first and voted on last because amend- 
ments to the body of the report may necessitate change 
in the preamble, the preamble being merely the preface 
or introduction, in which the motive for action is embodied. 
If the resolution is not adopted no vote on the preamble 
is needed. 

Form of Resolutions. 

The Preamble and Resolutions are stated in separate 
paragraphs. The Preamble begins with "Whereas" and each 
resolution with "Be it Resolved, That . . . ." The following 
may serve as an example: 

"Whereas, There is a pressing need for a larger and more 
modern High School in our City and we believe that a ma- 
jority of our citizens are in favor of a bond Issue for the 
building and equipment of such a school, 

"Be it Resolved, That we, the members of the Mann 
School Improvement Association, urge our City Commission- 
ers to call an election for the purpose of," etc. 

573. If a committee recommends the rejection of a measure 
how is the matter put to a vote? 

As follows: — "The question is on the adoption of the 
resolution, the report of the committee to the contrary not- 
withstanding." This is because all questions are put to 
vote in the affirmative form; "All in favor of . . . ." etc. 

574. Can members of a committee be conpelled to absent 
themselves from part of a meeting of the body in order to 
hold a committee meeting? 

No, they may be requested to withdraw and consider 
a question but are not obliged to comply because this would 
deprive them of the right to take part in all the proceedings. 
Such a committee meeting might be used to prevent certain 
members being present when certain measures were passed 
upon. Fox 43. 

575. How may communications from persons who are not 
members or from other organizations be treated? 



122 

They may or may not be received, as the members decide. 
The presiding officer should be made acquainted beforehand 
with the purport of the communication and if not relevant to 
the objects of the society it may be ruled out of order or 
the member having it in charge may be permitted to state 
briefly its character and intent. The society will then de- 
cide whether it shall be received or not. Fox 83. 

576. What is an ex-officio member of a committee? 

One who is a member by virtue of some office. If the 
office is under the control of the body then there is no dis- 
tinction between the ex-officio member and the other mem- 
bers of the committee. A president of an organization is 
not an ex-oficio member of any committee unless appointed 
by the body or made so by special rule. If the ex-officio 
member's office is not under the control of the bodys he has 
all the privileges but none of the obligations of membership, 
as were the governor of a state is ex-officio member of some 
board of trustees or managers. Robert 79 (note.) 

577. How should a report from a conference committee be 
made? 

In writing, signed by all who agree with the report. Must 
be first submitted to the body that requested the conference, 
then to the other. Cannot be amended, but may be rejected 
with a request for another conference. Hollister 73 (c). 

578. What is the character of a Board of Directors or an 
Executive Committee? 

Either is virtually a standing committee but the mem- 
bers are usually elected just as officers are. The report of 
such a body is generally the first under the head of Reports 
of Standing Committees. Unless empowered by the organ- 
ization to act for the body in the interim of widely separated 
meetings such a body is governed by the same rules as a 
standing committee and has no inherent powers other than 
those delegated to it by the constitution and by-laws of the or- 
ganization creating it. Pox 38; Robert 137; Hollister 70. 

579. When an annual report from a Board of Managers or 
ari Executive Committee is amended by the society upon 
presentation what care should be taken? 

To indicate by marginal or foot notes what parts of 
the report the board is responsible for. Robert 89 (note). 



123 

580. Can a committee appoint sub committees? 

Any committee except a Committee of the Whole can 
appoint a sub committee and place certain parts of the whole 
work in its hands, this sub committee would, of course, 
report to the chairman of the main committee who would in- 
corporate the result of the "findings" of the sub committee 
in the report to the assembly. Robert 83. 

581. Does ex-officio membership on a committee carry with 
it the right to vote, and is this right ever denied to the ex- 
officio member? 

Unless it is expressly stated, which is sometimes done, 
that the ex-officio member is not to have the voting privilege 
the right goes with the membership. Fox 40. 

582. How should the work of Standing Committees be per- 
formed? 

The work of committees in charge of specific subjects 
or objects "should be consecutive and cumulative for that 
one purpose until results are actually attained." No part 
done, whether for information or for action should need to be 
done again and all reports, documents, etc., tending to show 
the past, present and probable future status of the enter- 
prise should be preserved intact and handed over to the 
incoming chairman by the retiring chairman or by the secre- 
tary of the organization in order that the successive mem- 
bership may begin at the point where their predecessors left 
off and may proceed to push the work forward from that 
point. In this way only can substantial progress be made. 

583. Should anything that has taken place in a committee 
meeting be alluded to in the assembly? 

No; unless by general consent or by a formal report con- 
taining the facts, of disorderly conduct, etc., as it may have 
occurred. Paul 57. 

Committee .functions as defined for insertion in By-Laws. 

Art. IV. 

Sec. 1. In addition to the Executive Committee there 
shall be four standing committees, each consisting of three 
members: Membership, Finance, Press and Program. 

Sec. 2. The Membership Committee shall investigate 
the qualification of all applicants for membership and report 
to the Executive Committee (or club). 



124 

Sec. 3. The Finance Committee shall devise ways and 
means for raising money to carry on the work of the club 
and shall examine and pass upon all claims and accounts 
before payment and report to the Executive Committee. 

Sec. 4. The Press Committee shall have control of all 
printing, advertisements and publications of the workings 
of the club and it shall be its further duty to see that the 
members of the club and the public are kept fuily advised 
as to the operations and benefits of the club and report to 
the Executive Committee. 

Sec. 5. The Program Committee shall prepare a program 
covering all the meetings of the club for the ensuing year 
including both literary and social meetings. 

Report of a Standing Committee. 

Madam President and Members of the Woman's Progres- 
sive Circle: Your Committee on Inspection of Public En- 
tertainments begs leave to report that all houses of public 
entertainment were visited during the month of December. 
Nothing was found to condemn except in one instance and, 
as this is not the first time that occasion for complaint has 
been given by this same theatre, the committee recommends 
that the Circle make formal complaint to the Mayor of the 
character and quality of the entertainment offered during the 
month of December by the Elite Theatre, to the end that 
improvement may be effected or the theatre closed. 
Respectfully submitted, 

(Names of the five members follow, chairman 
either first or last, date, etc., follow.) 

Report of a Special Committee. 
Mrs. Chairman and Members of the Bayside Literary 
Club: Your committee appointed to ascertain the cost of 
a course of three lectures on the History of Education by 
Professor Addison, instructor in the Moundville College for * 
Boys begs leave to report that the cost of the lectures will 
be forty-five dollars ($45), railroad fare six dollars and sev- 
enty-five cents ($6.75), making a total of fifty-one dollars 
and seventy-five cents ($51.75). The only dates available 
are Jan. 15, Feb. 2 and 27. 

Respectfully submitted. 



125 

References — The Committee and Its Report. Robert 64, 
79 to 93, 144, 170; Reed 53, 177, 189; dishing 138, 161, 53; 
Shattuck 10, Chapt. XVII. 203; Hollister 68; Fox Chapt. IV. 
36. 

Committee of the Whole. 

584. What is meant by the motion "to Go into a Committee 
of the Whole? 

This means that the desire is for the whole assembly 
to resolve itself into a mere committee in order that it may 
avail itself of the freedom of committee procedure and dis- 
cuss some subject in an informal, committee like manner. 
If carried, the presiding officer calls some other member 
to the chair and takes her place on the floor; the new chair- 
man calls to order, the regular secretary acts as secretary 
for the committee and business proceeds as in other com- 
mittees. At the conclusion of the informal consideration, or 
at any time, the committee of the whole may rise, on mo- 
tion, and report. If the motion to "rise" prevails the presid- 
ing officer resumes the chair and the chairman of the com- 
mittee presents a report as in any other committee. One ad- 
vantage of the committee of the whole is that motions made 
and votes taken in it are not recorded. Mrs. Fox says this 
is the best way, to consider a series of resolutions or revision 
of the constitution and by-laws. 

585. What is the standing of the motion "to go into Com- 
mittee of the Whole?" 

It is really a motion to commit and is subject to the 
same rules. 

586. What is the form? 

"Madam President, I move that the assembly do now 
resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole, to take under 
consideration the question that a sufficient sum be appro- 
priated from our treasury to purchase the new edition of the 
Enclycopedia Britannica for our public High School." 

587. Where is this motion of most service? 

In legislative and other large deliberative bodies; it 
is not needed in small societies. 

588. What are the only motions in order in ''Committee of 
the Whole?" 

To amend, to adopt, and to rise and report. 



126 

589. What is the only way in which debate can be limited 
or closed in this committee? 

For the assembly to adopt regulations beforehand. 

590. Should any record be kept of the committee proceed- 
ings? 

A memorandum for the use of the committee only. 
When the formal report is made any action taken on it by 
the assembly is recorded as in case of any other report. 

591. What is the quorum of this committee? 

The same as that of the assembly. "No quorum,'' should 
be reported and the committee adjourned. 

592. If the committee becomes too disorderly to be controled 
by the chairman what can be done? 

The presiding officer resumes the chair and declares 
the committee dissolved. 

593. What opportunity does Committee of the Whole give 
the presiding officer? 

The oportunity to take part in the debate and proceed- 
ings on the same footing as any other member. Cushing 159. 

594. Are sub committees allowable in Committee of the 
Whole? 

No. 

595. When the committee has concluded its deliberations 
instead of a motion to Adjourn what motion is in order? 

The term "Rise" is used in committee instead of Ad- 
journ. "I move that the committee rise and report," etc., 
is the motion made when the business is completed. 

References — Committee of the Whole. Robert 93; Reed 
67; Cushing 155; Shattuck 195, 204; Hollister 70; Fox 51. 

Informal Consideration. 

596. How does a motion for Informal Consideration differ 
in effect from a motion to go into Committee of the Whole? 

If adopted the effect is practically the same because in 
each case the subject under consideration is discussed by 
the whole body with the freedom from formality of com- 
mittee procedure. 

597. How does the method of procedure differ from that 
in Committee of the Whole? 

Under the motion for Informal Consideration the pre- 
siding officer of the assembly does not leave the chair as 



127 

in Committee of the Whole but continues to preside and 
when the question is in satisfactory shape for formal action 
announces, without any motion, that "the assembly acting 
informally (or as if in committee of the whole) is ready to 
report for formal action," and proceeds to make the report. 
The question is then to be treated as any ordinary commit- 
tee report. As in Committee of the Whole the secretary does 
not record motions made but makes memoranda for tem- 
porary use. 

598. What is entered in the minutes? 

Only the report as made by the chair, this being part 
of the regular formal proceedings. 

599. What is the form for this motion? 

"I move that we proceed to consider this question in- 
formally," or "I move to consider the question now pending 
as if in committee of the whole." 

600. What motions are in use under Informal Consideration? 

Only the motions to amend and adopt, the other motion 
used by committees is not in order under this motion be- 
cause this is not a committee and does not therefore "rise 
and report." 

601. What is the effect, in Committee of the Whole and 
under the motion for Informal Consideration, of other motions 
if adopted? 

Such motions as to Adjourn, the Previous Question, to 
Commit, etc., put an end to the Informal Consideration. 
The motion to Commit, for example, if adopted would im- 
mediately place the question under consideration in the hands 
of an ordinary committee. 

602. What is the standing of the motion for Informal Con- 
sideration? 

It ranks with the motion to Commit. 

603. Can any final action be taken under this motion? 
No, the assembly must act "formally" afterwards. 
References — Informal Consideration. Robert 96; Fox 69; 

Hollister 71. 



LESSON IX: 

Organization; A Temporary or Mass Meeting; Double Organ- 
ization; A Convention of Delegates; A Permanent Society. 

Where annual election ends tyranny begins." — Jefferson. 

"Laws and institutions must go hand in hand with the 
progress of the human mind." — Jefferson. 



604. What is the object of Organization and what the neces- 
sity for proper organization? 

The object of organization is to enable any number of 
persons to express opinions, in regard to such subjects, and 
to perform such acts, as they may agree upon collectively^ 
in a dignified, effective and authentic manner. To do this, 
they must inspire respect by being properly constituted and 
organized. 

605. What are the powers and privileges of an assembly? 
Every organization is, to a certain extent, a law unto 

itself and may make its own special rules. In the absence 
of such special rules it is subject to the general law. No 
society should incur just censure by adopting any rule con- 
flicting with sound usage or principles. Shattuck X., XI.; 
Robert 20, 21 (note); Reed 49. 

606. Speaking generally, how many kinds of assemblies are 
there? 

Three: Legal, (constituted or ordered by law); Con- 
stituent, (authorized by competent authority without special 
warrant of law, although under its sanction) ; and Voluntary, 
(called together by those interested). These may be tem- 
porary or permanent and may require simple or double 
organization. 

607. Give examples of the three kinds. 

Constitutional conventions, legislatures and municipal 
councils, commissions, etc., are examples of legal assembles, 
the members of which are appointed or elected by provision 
of law; political conventions to make nominations and con- 
ventions of incorporated associations are examples of the 
second, or constituent sort, while political meetings or mass 



129 

meetings of citizens to consider matters of general interest 
or to protest against some existing condition or meetings 
calling together all those interested in some special purpose, 
civic, religious, scientific or charitable, etc., are examples 
of voluntary societies, or assemblies. 

608. Will the same form of organization suit all kinds? 

No, the general character is the same but the form 
must be adapted to the needs of the individual assembly. 
In permanent organizations this is done by the adoption of 
a suitable form of constitution, by-laws, special rules, etc. 

609. What kind require Credentials? 

The kind whose membership is made up of delegates, 
or representatives from branch associations or from other 
independent organizations. 

610. What and why are Credentials and ft Credential Com- 
mittee? 

Credentials are certificates of proper appointment, pro- 
vided by the body sending delegates to a convention and the 
credential committee is a committee to examine these cre- 
dential certificates and pass upon their genuineness. 

611. What necessity are legal organizations under? 

Their charters or constitutions must conform to certain 
laws and any rules or amendments to rules that they may 
adopt for their own government must not conflict with any 
higher authority. Fox 4. 

612. What should the record of meetings of legal assemblies 
and stock companies always show? 

What persons were present. Meetings of such organ- 
izations can only be called by one legally qualified. Fox 29; 
Hollister 21 (a). 

613. How are voluntary meetings called? 

Such meetings may be in response to a call to the gen- 
eral public in the newspapers, or by written, printed or even 
verbal invitations. The names of the one or more persons 
issuing the call should be signed to it, or made known. The 
purpose of the meeting is also stated briefly, in order to in- 
sure the attendance of those interested. 

614. If the meeting is held at a private house has the hostess 
any special privileges? 

No, and she ought not to preside or call the meeting 
to order or be conspicuous in any way. Shattuck 3. 



130 

A Temporary, or Mass Meeting. 

615. What is a Mass Meeting? 

It is one that is called together for a single purpose, 
the intention being to have only the one meeting. The term 
is correct even if the attendance is small. The term does 
not apply to the meetings of an organized society. Fox 128. 

016. Is it usual to allow ten or fifteen minutes for as- 
sembling? 

Yes, especially in mass meetings and meetings for or- 
ganization. 

617. What is the first step in organizing a temporary or 
mass meeting? 

To call the meeting to order and elect a presiding of- 
ficer. Robert 139. 

618. Who calls the meeting to order and how? 

Any one may call it to order but usually one of those 
who issued the call does so, by previous arrangement and 
in the following manner: — rising and stepping forward, 
strikes table with gavel and says, "The time having arrived 
for opening this meeting the meeting will please come to 
order. I move that Mrs. A. act as chairman of this meeting," 
or "I nominate Mrs. A. for chairman," etc., or "Will 
some one please nominate a chairman," etc. In a meeting of 
this sort some person acquainted with and friendly to the 
object of the meeting and known to be a good presiding 
officer is usually asked beforehand if she will serve, if 
nominated, and is then nominated by the person who calls 
the meeting to order. In this case nominations from the 
floor are not called for but they may, of course, be offered. 
If nominations are called for or made and there are several 
names to be acted upon they are voted on in the order 
nominated, as in filling blanks. The election is viva voce 
and if there is only one candidate is sometimes by acclama- 
tion. (See Question 341, Lesson VIII.) Robert 138; Reed 
203; Cushing 10; Shattuck 5. 

619. What general principle of decision is acted upon in 
taking the first step towards organizing? 

The rule of the majority. 

620. If a motion making any certain person chairman is lost 
what is done? 



lai 

Nominations are called for and voted on until a chairman 
is elected. 

621. What is the next step in organizing this meeting? 
Chairman takes chair and calls for nominations for 

secretary as follows: "The first business in order is the 
election of a secretary, nominations are in order," or "called 
for." : 

622. Strictly speaking how many officers are necessary 
for proper parliamentary organization? 

Only these two: A Presiding and a Recording officer. 
Robert 141; Reed 45; Cushing 25. 

623. How does the process of organizing a temporary meet- 
ing sometimes vary? 

Sometimes a member nominates a chairman and no vote 
is taken, the assembly signifying their approval by accla- 
mation. In large meetings the presiding officer is sometimes 
escorted to his seat by the person nominating him, and 
one other, whereupon he makes a short speech of acceptance 
thanking the body for the honor conferred upon him. Robert 
140 (note). 

624. After a chairman and a secretary are provided what 
next? 

The next step is to state the object of the meeting. If 
the general public was invited and the meeting is large, 
and was called for some one special purpose, the object is 
usually embodied in a series of resolutions, prepared before- 
hand, and ready to present for debate and action. If the 
call for the meeting was published or sent out in the form 
of written or printed invitations the chairman would request 
the secretary to read the call and immediately afterwards 
it would be in order to move the adoption of the resolutions. 
If the meeting is small and can therefore be somewhat in- 
formal, the object is usually stated by the chair or by some 
one upon whom he calls as being well acquainted with it, 
after which, all present are asked to express themselves 
freely in informal debate. It is a good plan for the chair- 
man, after the purpose of such a meeting is stated, to call 
on a reasonable number of those present, who are best fitted 
for it, to express their views informally, allowing, with the 
consent of the assembly, from three to ten minutes to each 
speaker according to the amount of time available. It is 



132 

still better to ask certain persons beforehand, if possible, 
to present, their views without waiting to be called on at 
the time. 

625. What should be the result of the Informal Discussion? 
Informal discussion should crystallize into a Motion in 

regard to Carrying out the Object. 

626. Who should attend to this and how? 

It is the duty of the chair to see that the object for which 
the meeting is called receives fair and thorough discussion 
and that the will of the majority is carried out. 

627. If it is preferred to have the object of the meeting put 
into shape by a committee what is the process? 

Some one moves "that a committee be appointed to draft 
resolutions expressive of the sense of this meeting on . . ." 
stating object of meeting. If this motion carries, the chair 
asks: "Of how many shall this committee consist?" and 
when this is decided asks further: "How shall it be ap- 
pointed?" (See Committees.) 

628. When the chair asks how the committee shall be ap- 
pointed what is usually done? What is best in mass meetings? 

This is usually decided without the formality of a vote. 
The committee may be appointed by the chair or nominated 
by the chair or by members (each member may name one 
committee member) and elected by viva voce vote. It is best 
in mass meetings to have the chair appoint. Robert 143. 

629. What should the committee do? 

Retire and agree upon a report which should be written 
in the form of resolutions ready for action by the body. On 
an occasion like this the committee sits during the progress 
of the meeting because it is practically "so ordered" by cir- 
cumstances. Robert 144. 

630. Can anything be done by the meeting during the ab- 
sence of the committee? 

Can take up other business or listen to speeches or take 
a recess. 

631. What should the chair do upon the return of the com- 
mittee? 

Ask if it is ready to report and announce that the com- 
mittee on .... will now be heard. 



133 

632. What should the chairman of the committee do if the 
presiding officer fails to ask for the report? 

Should obtain the floor at the first opportunity and say: 
"Madam Chairman, the committee appointed to .... is pre- 
pared to report." 

€33. What is done with the committee report? 

It is read by the chairman of the committee who then 
moves: "that the report be adopted." (See Questions 558- 
564, Lesson VIII.) 

634. When the business for which the meeting was called 
is finished what is in order? 

A motion to adjourn. 

635. If more time is required for consideration before acting 
on the resolutions what may be done? 

The motion "that a committee be appointed to draft reso- 
lutions expressive of the sense of this meeting on . . . ." 
etc., may add, "that the committee report at an adjourned 
meeting to be held on" (naming a day, hour, etc.) 

636. Is the organization above described simple or double? 
Simple, because only one set of officers is elected. These 

are not quite the same as "pro tempore" officers, nor yet 
just the same as what is generally understood as "perma- 
nent" officers. They are permanent for this meeting, but 
the meeting itself is temporary. 

637. What is double organization and what kind of assem- 
blies require it? 

Double Organization is temporary followed by perma- 
nent and occurs in two forms, the convention form and what 
may be called the development form. In the convention 
form both the temporary and the permanent organizing take 
place in the same meeting, and are needed by assemblies 
composed of members who have credentials and whose right 
to represent might be questioned. The temporary organ- 
ization is preliminary in order to ascertain the legal mem- 
bership, the second, or permanent, organization being made 
by the accredited delegates for the purpose of conducting 
the business entrusted to their care. A mass, or temporary 
meeting sometimes results in double organization, namely, 
temporary followed by permanent, by natural process of de- 
velopment. 



134 

638. If a meeting which was intended to be merely tem- 
porary results in a feeling that a permanent organization 
should ensue or if a meeting is called as a preliminary step 
looking towards permaenent organization, how may the per- 
manent organization be effected? 

By making permanent officers of the officers serving 
for the meeting, or by electing others and adopting a plan 
for regular work (constitution, etc.) Both these actions to 
follow upon a motion: "that a permanent association be 
organized for (stating purpose) with the members of this 
meeting as members of the permanent body," adding any- 
thing else needed. This is an illustration of the "develop- 
ment form.' , 

639. How may the temporary organization be most ex- 
peditiously made permanent? 

By the adoption of the simple motion "that the temporary 
organization be declared permanent." This, of course, should 
not be done unless it is reasonably certain that the tem- 
porary officers will be acceptable to all as permanent officers. 

DOUBLE ORGANIZATION. 

Temporary followed by Permanent, Convention Form. 

640. When persons present at a meeting are delegates, rep- 
resenting chapters, lodges, clubs, etc., what is necessary be- 
fore business can be transacted? 

It is necessary to act upon the report of the credential 
committee, as only those reported to have proper creden- 
tials are entitled to vote. The credential committee may 
give badges or certificates of approval to those who "pass" 
and these then become the voting body. Robert 147; Reed 
31; Hollister 22; Fox 124. 

641. By whom is the report of the credential committee 
accepted? 

By the voting body created by the committee's report. 

642. What may the committee report besides those having 
proper credentials? 

It may report doubtful or contested cases, with recom- 
mendations for the assembly to pass upon, or to refer to a 
special committee. 



135 

643. What care should be taken in appointing committees 
or electing to office? 

That no one is selected for service even in the temporary 
organization whose credentials will be questioned. 

644. When may persons be debarred from delegated as- 
semblies? 

If their societies have failed to pay their dues or to 
furnish them with credentials. Hollister 22 (f). 

645. What is the proper course of conduct for a delegate 
whose credentials are questioned? 

The delegate is entitled to be heard on the question and 
should then withdraw until it is decide^. Cushing 13. 

646. What may be done if there is need of an exact vote? 
A member may ask for a role call of clubs, etc., when 

each director, or chairman of a delegation, is to rise as the 
roll is called and announce the fuli number of vo'tes to which 
her delegation is entitled. 

647. What right has an organization over dependent bodies 
which it has created? 

Any chapter, club or lodge, in fact any organization hav- 
ing the right to organize dependent bodies, possesses the in- 
herent right to dissolve such bodies for just cause, full op- 
portunity for a hearing having been granted. 

648. When only a committee of some sort holds over from 
one convention to another, as in many national and state 
organizations, political and religious bodies such as hold only 
one meeting every one or two or even three years, who 
issues the call for the next convention, how is the conven- 
tion organized and when is it ready for work? 

The chairman of the committee issues the call and ef- 
fects the first, or temporary, organization by calling to order 
and proceeding to the election of the necessary pro tern 
officers. This is followed by the appointment of a com- 
mittee on credentials, if one has not already been provided. 
The reception and acceptance of their report ensures. Usu- 
ally the appointment of a committee to nominate permanent 
officers comes next and this goes through the customary 
processes until the election of permanent officers results. 
These take their places, the temporary chairman calling the 
permanent to the chair; the meeting being now properly 



136 

organized is ready for work. In organizations of this kind 
the permanent officers hold office only during this conven- 
tion, which lasts from a few days to one or more weeks 
as the case may be, and the same process is gone through 
at the next convention — an executive, or other, committee 
holding over as before. 

649. When is it best to elect officers by ballot? 
Whenever there is any competition for office. The con- 
stitution of permanent bodies usually provides that the of- 
ficers shall be elected by ballot. Tlobert 148 (note). 

650. If a presiding officer is nominated for some position 
how should the nomination be treated? 

The chairman should put her own name to vote just 
as the others are, speaking of herself impersonally as "Mrs. 
Clark." If the names are to be balloted on she should in- 
clude her own name with the others as follows: "Mrs. Al- 
len, Mrs. Jones and Mrs. Clark, are the candidates." 

651. When regular officers hold over, as in federations of 
clubs certain state and national associations, etc., what is 
the method of getting a convention in proper shape for bus- 
iness? 

The presiding officer calls the convention to order and 
presides throughout but no important business is done until 
the report of the credential committee is acted on. This 
committee is usually appointed beforehand and if the by-laws 
do not provide for its appointment the managing board 
should appoint. Blank credentials should be sent out to be 
filled and presented in person. After the report of the cre- 
dential committee is accepted the presiding officer declares 
the convention open for business. A program, usually pre- 
pared beforehand by a program committee, is taken up as the 
order of business and followed as closely as possible. The 
printed program should be formally presented by the com- 
mittee and adopted, with or without amendment, but it need 
not be read. 

652. Can any person's right to a seat be challenged during 
the existence of a temporary organization? 

No. 

653. What are the usual opening formalities of a convention? 
Usually an Address of Welcome and a Response, the 

President's Address, sometimes an address from some invited 



137 

speaker; anything of a ceremonious, interesting or instruc- 
tive character which does not require action and is not busi- 
ness. All of these take place before the credential commit- 
tee has reported and serve the double purpose of giving the 
delegates time to present their credentials and for the com- 
mittee to prepare its report. 

Form for Credentials. 

Name of Place and Date 



This is to certify that the Bearer (Name of Delegate) is a 
delegate from (Name of Club) to the 11th annual convention 
of the (Name of State) Federation of Womens' Clubs. 



President. 



Secretary. 

Approved (Name of) Chairman Credentials Committee. 

Organization of a Permanent Society. 

€54. What precaution should be taken in forming a perma- 
nent association, club, lodge, etc.? 

That only suitable persons are invited to the initial 
meeting. 

655. Is a meeting whose ultimate object is to organize a 
permanent society conducted like one whose object is only 
temporary? 

Up to a certain point the proceedings are the same, 
namely: (1.) Meeting called to order. (2.) Nomination 
and election of pro tern officers. (3.) Object of meeting 
stated and debated. (4.) Discussion, followed by motion 
to take action of some sort. 

656. In this case what is the proper motion? 

A motion: "To organize a permanent association whose 
object shall be . . . ." (stating object.) 

657. What is required and should come next in organizing 
a permanent society? 

Appointment of committee on constitution and by-laws. 
Robert 151; Shattuck 14; Hollister 23. 



138 

658. What next? 

Appointment of committee on nominations for perma- 
nent officers. Then, if ready for such action, the consti- 
tution and by-laws may be adopted and the permanent of- 
ficers may be elected at this meeting, but usually it is best 
to take more time to consider the plan of work, permanent 
officers, etc. 

659. When the chair asks how shall the committee be ap- 
pointed should calls of "By the chair,' , or "From the Floor," 
be regarded? 

Such calls are not a regular motion and need not be 
regarded but like the call of "Question, Question" may be 
allowed by general consent and considered to be motions. 

660. What, then, is the essential difference in organizing a 
temporary meeting and a permanent society? 

The permanent adopts a constitution setting forth a defi- 
nite object and a plan for carrying it out, elects officers 
to serve for a stated term, or session, and provides a regu- 
lar time and place of meeting. The time and place for the 
next meeting should be fixed before adjournment. 

Second Meeting of a Permanent Society. 

661. If permanent officers were not elected at the first meet- 
ing who serves at the second? 

The officers of the previous meeting serve until the per- 
manent are elected. 

662. After the call to order what comes next? 

Reading of the minutes of first meeting. These are cor- 
rected if necessary and then approved by the whole body. 

663. What is next in order? 

Report of committee on constitution and by-laws, and 
adoption of constitution. (See Question 564, Lesson VIII.) 

664. Who are the only ones privileged to take part in the 
meeting after the constitution is adopted? 

Only those who are eligible to membership under its 
provisions. 

665. Is each member entitled to a copy of the constitution 
and by-laws? 

Yes, copies should be printed and furnished to every 
member. 



139 

666. After the adoption of a constitution and by-laws what 
follows ? 

The signing of the constitution by those who wish to be- 
come members of the permanent organization, also the pay- 
ment of dues. A recess may be taken for this purpose. 

667. What are these members called? 
Charter members. 

668. If the society be auxiliary to some other what is done 
about a constitution? 

That of the parent society, or one provided by it, is 
adopted, such by-laws, special rules, etc., as seem best suited 
to the local organization being adopted in addition. These, 
of course, must not conflict with the constitution. 

669. What comes next? Is the combination of constitution 
and by-laws necessary ? 

Adoption of the by-laws, if ready. These are treated 
seriatim also but are not signed when adopted. The com- 
bination is customary but not obligatory, some societies 
operate under either, alone. 

670. What important step is now in order? 

The election of permanent officers if this was not done 
at the first meeting. 

671. When do the permanent officers assume their official 
duties and positions? 

As soon as elected unless some other time is specified. 
It is customary, in many societies, for the presiding officer 
in charge of a meeting for election of officers to continue 
to preside until the close of the meeting, so that the new of- 
ficers, although they become the officers as soon as elected, 
do not assume their duties and positions until the close of 
the meeting at which they are elected, at which time they 
are often "installed." 

672. What is meant by the installation of officers and is it 
a necessary part of the proceedings? 

It is not necessary, but in large organizations the "seat- 
ing" of the officers is frequently made under special rules 
quite a complimentary and imposing ceremony, speeches of 
introduction and acceptance being made and the officers 



140 

being escorted to the platform by the retiring officers with 
much state, elaboration, etc. 

673. When is organization complete? 

After the adoption of a constitution and the election of 
permanent officers. Robert 155. 

674. What is an incorporated society? 

One that has adopted articles of association in compliance 
with the conditions of a state law which makes provision 
for the incorporation of such a society. These articles take 
the place of a constitution and no amendments to them can 
conflict with state laws. 

675. Under what circumstances should a society become 
incorporated? 

If it expects to own property or to do business. A law- 
yer should be consulted in order that the constitution, or 
charter, may be made to conform to the laws of the state 
in which the association is located. Robert 155. 

676. What advantage is there in incorporation? 

Even a majority cannot disregard the regulations of 
the authority under which incorporated and this protects 
ar. association from any usurpation of power within its own 
body. An incorporated society may bring legal action in 
the name of the body. Fox 5; Paul 192. 

677. If an association wishes a board of directors or man- 
agers what should be done? 

The number of officers may be increased by adding one 
or more members. "These officers and members, etc., shall 
constitute a Board of Managers" should be added to the con- 
stitution together with an article defining their duties. 

References — Organization and Meetings. Robert Article 
IX., 139-155; Reed Chapt. I., II. 16-35; Cushing Introduction 
9-17; Shattuck Chapt. I., II., 3-12; Hollister Sections II., III., 
IV., 21, 25; Fox Chapter VIII., 121, 129. 

DRILL. 

Organization: Practice organizing a Temporary or Mass 
Meeting. Questions 615-636. Call to Order. Nominate and 



141 

elect chairman (have a number of names in nomination). 
Chairman takes seat and calls for nominations for secretary. 
Secretary elected. Object of meeting stated. Informal dis- 
cussion. Motion relating to carrying out object, etc. 

Organization: Practice organizing a Convention where 
the first form is temporary followed by permanent: 

I. Convention called to order by chairman of executive 
board, or other authorized person who may be a chairman 
appointed by the local committee on arrangements. II. 
Election by convention of temporary secretary. III. Ap- 
pointment of credentials committee. IV. Chairman of cre- 
dentials committee calls for credentials of delegates. V. 
Recess, pending the action of the credentials committee. 
The time may be used for informal talks or addresses. VI. 
Report of credentials committee. VII. Roll Call. VIII. 
Election of permanent officers. IX. Installation of Officers, 
etc. There follows the business of the convention. 



LESSON X. 

Organization Continued; Regular or Ordinary Meetings of a 
permanent Society; Quorum; Order of Business, Minutes; 
Constitution and By-Laws; Standing Rules; Rules of 
Order; Special Rules; Meeting, Session, etc. 

"Every society has a right to fix the fundamental princi- 
ples of its association." — Jefferson. 



678. What is the character of the meetings of a permanent 
society? 

Meetings are either regular, special or annual or an 
adjournment of one of these. They are also frequently des- 
ignated as business, literary, social, etc. 

679. What action may be taken at a regular meeting? 

Any action consistent with the purposes of a society 
and within its powers except upon such measures as are rele- 
gated by rule or program to the annual meeting or to certain 
specified meetings such as business, literary, social, etc. 

680. What action may be taken at a special or called meeting? 
No business can be transacted except that specified in 

the call; even the minutes of the preceding meeting cannot 
be approved if not mentioned in the call, unless the words, 
"and for the transaction of any other business that may be 
presented" are added. The call is first read and business 
is taken up in the order indicated in it. Fox 121; Hollister 
12; Shattuck 48. 

681. What matters are usually limited to the annual meeting? 
Annual reports of officers and committees, election of 

officers, auditing of accounts, revision of the constitution and 
matters of like character. 

682. What is an adjourned meeting? 

An adjourned meeting is simply a continuation of either 
a regular, a special or an annual meeting, and any business 
which was in order at the meeting of which it is the con- 
tinuation is in order at the adjourned meeting. 

683. How are ordinary meeting of a permanent society sub- 
sequent to the first and second conducted? 



143 

Like the second except that a regular order of business 
being adopted the chairman proceeds to take up the items 
of business as prescribed therein, as, for example, after the 
reading of the minutes, the first item being "Reports of 
Standing Committees," the chair will say "The next order 
of business is "The Reports of Standing Committees. Have 
these committees any report to make?" etc. 

684. When is business legally begun? 

When the presiding officer calls the club to order, "The 
club will please come to order," the secretary begins at this 
point to make a record. Fox 17. 

685. What is the legal title of a chairman pro tern? 

A chairman pro tern is vested with the authority of the 
office and is addressed by the title of the presiding officer 
whatever that may be. 

686. Who presides in the absence of the president and what 
is done if both president and vice-presidents are absent? 

In the first case, the first on the list of vice-presidents 
presides; in the second case, the secretary or any member 
may call the meeting to order and ask for nominations for 
a temporary chairman. A secretary pro tern is elected in 
the same way if the regular secretary is absent. 

687. When should a meeting be called to order? 
Not until a quorum is ascertained to be present. 

688. What is a quorum and of how many does it consist in 
the absence of any special rule? 

The number necessary to be present for the legal trans- 
action of business. It consists of a majority of all the mem- 
bers unless limited by special rule. Robert 135. 

689. What is the object of the roll call and is it necessary 
to use it in every case? 

Its object is to keep a record of attendance and to find 
a quorum. If the former is not essential to the society the 
latter may be found by counting. Often both purposes are 
served by having the secretary note those present. 

690. Can members be sent for to make a quorum? 

Yes, but they cannot be compelled to come, except in 
legislatures and other legal organizations. 

691. How is the quorum fixed? 



144 

The quorum is fixed either by law, by usage or by vote 
in accordance with the character of the organization, that 
is, as to whether it is legal, constituent or voluntary. 

692. In representative or financial bodies what is the quorum? 
Always a majority, and cannot be changed by the vote of 

the body. City Councils, boards of directors, trustees, etc., are 
of this class. Reed; 22. 

693. What is necessary in permanent societies and what is 
expedient in regard to a quorum? 

To adopt a much smaller number than a majority, often 
less than 1-20 of the membership. It is not expedient, or 
fair, however, to transact business of importance unless a 
reasonable number are present except where previous notice 
of the contemplated action has been given. 

694. When there has once been a quorum, if the number is 
afterwards reduced below it is business continued? 

If the absence of a quorum is noted, the chair must 
declare the meeting adjourned. If the question of "no 
quorum" is not raised however, the meeting may proceed 
but failure to note the absence of a quorum does not make 
the voting legal; therefore no business of any importance 
should be transacted because the vote could afterwards be 
declared illegal. Robert 136; Reed 26. 

695. What governs the proceedings? 

The Order of Business if one has been adopted. 

696. What is the Order of Business, sometimes referred to 
as the "Table?" 

Every association adopts a regular or settled form of 
program which serves as a guide for the consideration of such 
subjects as are to be taken up at its meetings. This is its 
Order of Business and by proceeding according to this pro- 
gram no time is wasted in debating what shall be next con- 
sidered. There is no arbitrary form for an Order of Business, 
but the following is the simplest recognized parliamentary 
form: (1.) Call to Order. (2.) Minutes. (3.) Unfinished 
Business. (4.) New Business. (5.) Adjournment. All other 
forms are such modifications of this simple form as may be 
needed by any individual organization. Reed 193. 

Suggested Outline for Order of Business for Regular Meet- 
ings of Ordinary Societies: 

(1.) Call to Order. (2.) Minutes. (3.) Reports of Of- 



145 

ficers; President, Corresponding Secretary, Treasurer, etc. 
(4.) Reports of Standing Committees: Executive, Program, 
Membership, Finance, etc. (5.) Reports of Special Commit- 
tees. (6.) Unfinished Business. (7.) New Business. (8.) 
Adjournment. If there is to be a Roll Call it should come just 
after the Call to Order; if there are any Special Orders they 
follow the Minutes. Announcements, Communications, etc., 
are frequently placed just after the minutes or after the 
Special Orders and if literary or social features are com- 
bined with the regular business they follow the business or 
sometimes are required to be take place at a specified hour. 

697. Besides being a guide to the presiding officer and sys- 
temizing the work what is the value of a settled order of 
business? 

It operates as a restraint upon individuals and com- 
mittees, and also upon the assembly itself in regard to meas- 
ures for which they may have a preference. Cushing 101. 

698. If the literary or social features are fixed for a certain 
hour what becomes of the business that is not concluded 
when that time arrives? 

It is by general consent postponed until the next meeting 
at which it would be proper to take it up, and it comes up 
then under the head of "Unfinished Business." The assembly 
may, however, vote to continue the business or to take up 
some special topic, but as this is by suspension of the rules 
a two-thirds vote is required. 

Suggested Outline for Order of Business for Annual Meetings 

of an Ordinary Society. 

1. Call to Order. 2. Reading and Approval of Minutes 
of last Meeting. 3. Annual Reports of Officers, including 
the Auditor. 4. Annual Address of President. 5. Miscel- 
laneous Business. 6. Election of Officers. 7. Adjournment. 
Miscellaneous business allows for the introduction of any 
business not provided for up to that time. 

An Outline suggested by Mrs. Paul (204) : 
1. Call to Order. 2. Minutes of last Meeting. 3. Ap- 
pointment of Tellers. 4. Nomination and Election of Offi- 
cers. 5. Reports of Officers. 6. Reports of Standing Com- 
mittees. 7. Reports of Special Committees. 8. Report or 
Tellers. 9. Miscellaneous Business. 10. Adjournment. 



146 

Under number four, nominations are made and ballots cast 
for officers, the ballots are collected by the tellers and 
counted while the reports of the officers, etc., are made. This 
gives the tellers time to make up their report and avoids the 
tedium of waiting for the general membership. 

699. What is necessary in order to take up business out of 
its regular order? 

To suspend the rules, which requires a two-thirds vote. 
Robert 137. 

700. What are the Minutes? 

A record of what has been done by an organization, and 
not the report of the secretary. 

701. When should the Minutes be read and approved, and 
how? 

The last thing done before adjournment if meetings are 
far apart but if as near together as monthly should be read at 
the next meeting before any other business is transacted, and 
approved as soon as read. They are usually approved by the 
chair asking if there are any objections to them as read, and 
if no corrections are made they are declared approved. 
Robert 129, 152. 

702. How are the minutes of annual conventions approved? 
The usual method is to read and approve at each daily 

morning session the minutes of the sessions of the day be- 
fore. The minutes of the sessions of the last day are ap- 
provided just before adjournment, but if not done they may, by 
special rule, be approved by an executive committee, or, such 
part of them as has not been passed upon, may be distributed 
in duplicate form before the next convention and approved 
at that convention without being read. Fox 125. 

703. When and how may amendments to the minutes (cor- 
rections) be made and when must a vote be taken on them? 

Corrections may be made by the chairman or by mem- 
bers without motion or vote unless there is difference of 

opinion, in which case the amendments must be put to vote. 

« 

Corrections may be made whenever an error is discovered, 
but are usually made immediately after the reading. Robert 
152-129. 

704. After minutes are adopted if an error is discovered is 
a motion to reconsider the vote on the minutes necessary be- 
fore a correction can be made? 



147 

No, a simple motion to amend is sufficient no matter how 
much time has elapsed since the minutes were corrected or 
how often they were amended. 

705. Could a correction render invalid any action that had 
already taken place? 

No, because taken in good faith — under a misapprehen- 
sion of the action of the society. 

706. How may objectionable matter be removed from the 
minutes? 

May be expunged, on motion. A line should be drawn 
around the words and "expunged by order of the society" 
written across. To expunge requires unanimous vote and 
is not to be commended. The record, if correct, should stand 
as made because it is the legal account of the actual proceed- 
ings. The motion to expunge and also the matter to be ex- 
punged may, however, be omitted from the records if the 
motion is agreed to before the record has been put in perma- 
nent form. Robert 71 (note) ; Fox 86. 

707. Why is the motion "To Enter in the Minutes" made? 
To ensure the insertion of an entire report or manuscript 

in the records. This motion cannot be amended. Fox 82. 

708. Can amendments to the minutes be treated like other 
amendments? 

Yes. 

709. If amendments to the minutes are tabled do they carry 
the minutes to the table with them? 

No. 

710. What is a Constitution and why should it be made dif- 
ficult to change it? 

It is the fundamental, or organic, law of an association 
and so much a part of it that to change it radically would be 
to change the very nature of the organization itself. Robert 
157; Hollister 23. 

711. Whence is the organic law derived? 

It is embodied in the constitution framed and adopted by 
a voluntary society, in the statutes creating a legal assembly 
or in the charter granted by the State to an incorporated 
body or by a parent organization to its branches. 

712. What are By-Laws? 

By-Laws are to a certain extent an appendix to the Con- 
stitution. They explain and elaborate in detail what is stated 



148 

simply, as fundamental, in that document. They should con- 
tain only such regulations in regard to carrying out the pro- 
visions of the constitution as are of too great importance to 
be changed without previous notice and only such details as 
are essential to a proper understanding of it. 

713. What is a charter, or articles of association? 

A formal instrument in which a state or city grants cer- 
tain rights and privileges to a person or an association, cor- 
poration, institution, etc. It. takes the place of the usual con- 
stitution and prevents members from being held individually 
liable for the debts of the corporation. 

714. What are standing rules? 

Resolutions of a permanent nature, which, although not 
in the constitution, by-laws or rules of order, are binding 
until modified or rescinded. They can be adopted by a ma- 
jority vote at any meeting and changed, or dropped in the 
same way. They must not conflict with the superior laws in 
character or intent. Robert 158-159. 

715. What are special rules? 

Rules adapted to the needs of the society formulating 
them but not included in common parliamentary law. They 
may be, according to character, included in any division of 
the laws of the association creating them. Reed 49-52; Robert 
20. 

716. What are Rules of Order? 

Properly speaking they are such rules as apply to the 
manner in which business shall be transacted in the meet- 
ings, the program, order of business, etc. Some societies in- 
clude them in the by-laws, while others, .especially such as 
need many rules, sometimes have them printed separately. 

Model Outline of a Constitution, for Ordinary Societies. 

Article 1. Name. Art. II. Object. Art. III. Member- 
ship: Classes (as Active, Associate, Honorary, etc.), Qualifi- 
cations, Limit of (if any). Art. IV. Officers, (as President, 
Vice President, Secretaries, Treasurer, Auditor, etc.), and 
Directors (if any), number of, when elected and for what term 
of service (as One or Two years). Art. V. Committees; 
Classes (as Executive, Program, Membership, Finance, etc.), 
when elected and for what term of service (usually one year). 
Art. VI. Meetings; Classes (as Business, Social, Annual,. 



149 

Special, etc.), Annual: ,when held and what for; Special: 
how called. Quorum, for each kind of meeting. Art. 
VII. Amendments to the Constitution: provisions for (as 
when they may be made, what vote, what notice, etc., shall be 
required). 

By-Laws. 

Art. I. Duties of Officers. Art. II. Duties and Privileges 
of Members. Art. III. Committees: how appointed, Duties of. 
Art. IV. Fiscal Year, Dues and Penalties. Art. V. Meetings: 
Order of Business at the different kinds, how conducted, time 
and place of, and any other details concerning. Art. VI. Elec- 
tions: of Members, of Officers, how conducted. Art. 
VII. Amendments (to By-Laws). Art. VIII. Suspension of 
Rules, what rules may. be suspended and how. Art. IV. Par- 
liamentary Authority, (what manual shall be used and to 
what extent). 

The provisions for amendment of ,both constitution and 
by-laws are often put into one clause in the by-laws, also 
everything about the terms of service, meetings and elections, 
privileges and duties of members, provisions in regard to 
visitors, etc., are included in the by-laws. The subjects to 
be included in either constitution or by-laws must be decided 
upon by each organization for. itself, as the form, like that of 
the order of business, is elastic and should be adapted to the 
needs of each individual organization. It must always be re- 
membered, however, that only those things that are funda- 
mental are to be included in the constitution. Excellent 
models, in detail, for both constitutions and by-laws .will be 
found in the manuals of Mrs. Shattuck (251), Mrs. Fox (7), 
and Mrs. Paul (197). 

717. Can constitutions be suspended? 

No, not even by unanimous consent. To suspend the con- 
stitution is to dissolve the organization. Fox 71; Paul 262; 
Lewie. 

718. Can By-Laws be suspended? 

Not unless they provide for their own suspension. A two- 
thirds vote and previous notice should be required. Robert 
50 (note), 138 (note). 

NOTE. 

While Robert grants that both constitution and by-laws 
can be suspended by unanimous vote if they provide for their 



150 

own suspension, he says, however, that this should never.be 
done except "in case of a particular by-law relating to the 
transaction of business, and then it should be specified." 

719. When should changes in a constitution be made? 

If meetings are frequent, should only be allowed at a 
quarterly, or even .an annual meeting, notice being given at 
the previous quarterly meeting. The usual requirement is 
simply, previous notice and a two-thirds vote. 

720. In giving previous notice must a specified time be ob- 
served between the notice and the action upon the amend- 
ment, such as thirty days, two weeks, etc.? 

No specified time is required by the majority, apparent- 
ly, but in practice notice is usually given at the meeting prior 
to the meeting at which action is to be taken. In case of a 
convention, or where meetings are annual only, written notice 
of any proposed change is frequently sent out beforehand. 
This is also the custom whenever it has not been convenient 
or expedient to give notice at a meeting. In every case the 
principle is the same and is: — that notice of any proposed 
change in a constitution or important rules should be given 
at such a time and in such a way that every member entitled 
to vote may become acquainted beforehand with the fact that 
certain changes are proposed and are to be acted upon at a 
specified time. This is in order that no one may be taken by 
surprise and that all interested may be present and cast their 
votes for or against, as is their right, and also in. order that 
no single group or faction may take advantage of the mem- 
bership as a whole. Whatever the rule, if the principle is 
observed the proceeding is parliamentary. 

721. What is the difference between a meeting and a ses- 
sion? 

A meeting covers only the time between an assembling 
and a temporary adjournment. A session may consist of one 
meeting or of many, as: "a session" of Congress, a club ses- 
sion or a session of a convention, etc. Each meeting of a ses- 
sion, except the opening one, is an adjourned meeting. of the 
one proceding it but the session is not terminated except by 
what is practically an adjournment without day. (sine die). 

722. In common law is it sufficient to provide in the by-laws 



151 

for regular meeting days in order to define the session of an 
organization? 

Unless a club, society, etc., has defined the limits of its 
session in one of three ways each one of its meetings, whether 
regular or special, is regarded in common law as terminating 
by an adjournment without day and, therefore, a separate 
session. Robert 131 (note), 134 (note). 

723. What are the three parliamentary methods of defining 
the limits of a session? 

(1). By a clause in the by-laws (special rule) as, for ex- 
ample, "The club session shall begin on the first Monday in 
October and close on the last Monday in May," or (2) By a 
direct vote, which is, of course, recorded in the minutes, or 
(3) By adopting a program of exercises covering several 
meetings, or consecutive days, as in a convention, or weeks, 
months, etc., in ordinary societies. In any one of these in- 
stances the adjournment at each meeting, except the final 
one, is in effect to a certain day (temporary) and does not 
close the session. 

724. Why is it best to define the session in some one of these 
parliamentary methods? 

Because the influence of certain motions is materially 
affected by the duration of the session, as for example, to 
Postpone Indefinitely, if carried, removes the question to 
which it is applied for that session; a principal motion or an 
amendment that has failed of reconsideration cannot be re- 
newed in the same form during the session, etc. 

725. In what other sense is the word session often used? 

The word session is also applied to the daily 
meetings of a convention as, the morning, afternoon, evening 
sessions, but these are meetings, and not parliamentary ses- 
sions. 

726. When is the motion, "to go into Executive Session" 
made? 

When the assembly wishes all except members to with- 
draw in order that strictly private affairs may be acted upon. 
This motion cannot be debated or amended. 

727. How far can one session interfere with another? 
Not at all unless provided for in the constitution. 



152 

728. What memberships usually obtain in clubs? 
Active, Associate and Honorary. 

729. What are the functions of the different classes? 

Active members form the working body, they pay dues 
and transact all the business, serve on all committees, etc. 
Associate members are exempt from active service and can 
neither vote nor hold office but may enjoy all the privileges 
of the society. They frequently are required to pay larger 
dues than the active members. Honorary members neither 
vote. nor pay dues nor perform any active service but enjoy 
all the privileges. Honorary membership is usually only be- 
stowed upon those who have given much of their time to ac- 
tive service as members or officers or who have performed 
some signal service and may, therefore, be said to have 
earned complimentary membership. Honorary membership is 
sometimes conferred on non-residents, and sometimes . for 
life. The number that may be conferred during one session 
is limited and sometimes such membership is conferred for a 
term of one or more years and the number that a club may 
have at one time is limited. 

730. How is membership in societies, clubs, etc., obtained? 

In different ways, but usually by application. The. clubs 
require application to be made by the person desiring the 
membership, others permit members to present the names 
of persons whom they wish to have associated with the club, 
others have names suggested, vote on them and invite those 
whose names are accepted to become members. Names are 
sometimes suggested by a membership committee or. names 
of applicants are first submitted to such a committee and 
afterwards voted on by the club. The following is a common 
form for an application and may serve as a guide: "The un- 
dersigned, having read the Constitution and By-Laws of the 
Browning Literary Society, desires to become an active (or 
associate, etc.) member and promises if admitted to abide by 
the rules and to further, in every possible way, the objects 
of the society." 

731. How are resignations treated? 

A resignation is treated as a main motion. Its reading 
is its presentation and it is wrong for the chair to embarrass 
members by trying to get one of them to move "that it be 



153 

accepted." The chair should say, simply, "You have heard 
the resignation of Mrs. A., the question is on its acceptance," 
etc. Remarks may or may not be made as the members de- 
sire. The corresponding secretary may be instructed to write 
and express the regrets of the organization. 

732. Must a resignation be put to vote at once? 

No, it may be referred to a. committee, or postponed, etc., 
just as any main motion may be. Often when a valued mem- 
ber sends in a resignation some one moves. to postpone con- 
sideration until the member may be interviewed and induced 
to withdraw the resignation. 

733. What is the custom in giving a "Vote of Thanks?" 

A rising vote is customary and the negative side is never 
called for. 

734. How are resolutions of sympathy offered and treated? 

They are usually drafted by a committee appointed for 
the purpose and are treated as a report, except that it is cus- 
tomary to adopt them without amendment. They may be pre- 
pared and brought in by a member who may move their adop- 
tion after reading them. In either case if, by mistake, there 
should be anything inappropriate in them or any error as to 
facts, etc., they, like any other resolution, are subject to 
amendment. The last resolution usually r&ads as follows: 
"Be it resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be sent to 
(the family or others) and also be. spread on the minutes of 
this meeting." Any preferred wording can of course be used. 

735. What opening ceremonies are sometimes added to an 
Order of Business? . 

Devotional exercises, Invocations, etc. 

736. What is required to disband any organization? 
A two-thirds vote of all the members. 

737. What must an Incorporated Body do when it disbands? 

It must surrender its charter to the proper authorities 
and if it has property must apply to the proper court for an 
order authorizing the disposition of such property and the dis- 
tribution of the proceeds among the parties in interest. If 
a member resigns from an incorporated institution all inter- 
ests in its belongings are forfeited. 



154 

References — Meetings and Session. Robert 131-152; Fox 
15, 121; Hollister 12, 13; Shattuck 31, 29, 48. 

Order of Business: Robert 137; Cushing 101; Reed 193; 
Shattuck 33; Fox 15; Hollister 30. 

Quorum: Robert 135; Reed 21; Cushing 20; Shattuck 
34; Fox 118; Hollister 29. 

Minutes: Robert 126, 162; Reed 44; Cushing 29; Hollis- 
ter 31; Shattuck 44; Fox 158. 

Rules, Etc.: Robert 50, 158, 188; Reed 49; Cushing 22; 
Shattuck x, 243; Fox 4; Hollister 21, 60. 

Constitution, By-Laws: Robert 155; Shattuck 16, 251; 
Fox 6, 15; Hollister 23. 

Organization: Practice organizing a Permanent Society. 
Hold second meeting of a permanent scioety. Call to order 
by temporary chairman. Minutes read by temporary secre- 
tary and approved. Report of committee on constitution and 
by-laws, constitution adopted, by-laws postponed, constitution 
signed by charter members. Election of permanent officers, 
etc. 



LESSON XI. 

Duties and Rights of Officers, of Members. 

"Ignorance of the law excuses no man; Not all men know 
the law, but because 'tis an excuse every man will plead, and 
no man can tell how to refute him. — Selden. 



738. Of how many officers has the common law prescribed 
the duties? 

Only two, one to preside and one to record what is done, 
but the duties in general of other officers, a treasurer, for 
instance, as defined by custom and also by some of the best 
parliamentarians, may well be said to T)e parliamentary. 
Every organization has the power to create offices and to say 
what shall be the duties of persons filling them. Other 
duties may also be added to those prescribed by the common 
law or by custom. 

739. What titles has a Presiding Officer? 

Chairman, when no other is specified, President in nearly 
all voluntary societies, Speaker in the lower houses of all 
legislative bodies, Moderator in religious convocations, Regent 
in some patriotic societies and in such orders as the Masons, 
Knights of Pythias, etc., by titles peculiar to each. The pre- 
fix Mr. and Mrs. or Madam is always used unless some other, 
such as "Brother" Moderator, for example, is customary. 

740. What are the qualifications and characteristics of a 
good presiding officer? 

Good voice, good presence, executive ability, common 
sense, tact, consideration for others, self control, sincerity 
of purpose and impartiality. 

741. What is a valuable asset in a chairman? 

The ability to judge when to be a little lenient and let 
common consent decide, and when to insist upon a rigid en- 
forcement of parliamentary rules. 

742. What is the most important duty of a presiding officer? 
To promote the objects of the organization; to discourage 

any interference with their fulfilment, and to prevent the pro- 
jection into the meetings of anything irrelevant, or foreign to 
those purposes. 



156 

743. What are some of the most generally understood duties 
of a presiding officer? 

To be regular and prompt in attendance; to open meet- 
ings at the proper time after ascertaining that there is a 
quorum present; to conduct the business of the organization 
in accordance with its order of business and rules of order; 
to preserve order; decide points of order; to protect individ- 
ual members and minorities in their rights; to state and put 
to vote all questions introduced by members, and declare the 
result; to give all necessary information concerning parlia- 
mentary law and its effect upon the proposed questions; to 
promote the object of the meetings and carry out the will of 
the majority. These are some of the most generally under- 
stood duties. For further details see Reed 36; Cushing 26, 
32, 120, 161; Robert 120, 160; Shattuck 40; Fox 24; Hollister 
25. 

744. Under what circumstances must the chairman rise while 
speaking and when may she remain seated? 

When putting a question to vote; when declaring the re- 
sult of a vote, and when speaking upon a question of order 
or an appeal she should stand; in all other cases she may sit. 
In small bodies the formality of rising, either by chairman 
or members is frequently not observed. Robert 160. 

745. What are the rights of the presiding officer? 

When a member of the body, may vote in elections and 
whenever the vote is by ballot, or by yeas and nays; may 
vote to break a tie and carry a measure, or to make a tie and 
defeat one; when a two-thirds vote is required may vote with 
the minority to defeat a question; may require motions to be 
made in writing and may refuse to entertain those that are 
out of order or such as are made with the obvious purpose 
of delaying or obstructing business, and if sustained by a 
large majority on the first appeal need not even allow the 
factious members to appeal again. May decide which of two 
or more members who rise at the same time to speak is en- 
titled to the floor. May call up regular, or routine business 
without waiting for motions; may declare routine business 
"approved" without the formality of a vote, if no objection is 
made; may declare a meeting adjourned if there is no quorum, 
or the proper time has arrived or the meeting is too disorder- 
ly to be controlled; may call a member to the chair and take 



157 

part in debate, but should do this rarely, and ordinarily should 
not resume the chair until the question has been put to vote. 
Robert 112, 121, 124; Reed 40; Shattuck 42, 77. 

746. What are the rights of the office in debate? 

The right to debate or to address the assembly or to read 
n paper is not lost but should be seldom exercised because an 
Impartial, judicial attitude is necessary in a presiding officer 
who is, therefore, as Cushing says, "only allowed to state 
matters of fact within his knowledge; to inform the assembly 
on points of order or the course of the proceedings when 
called upon to do so or when necessary; and, upon appeals 
from his decision on questions of order, to address the as- 
sembly in debate. The chairman must leave the chair and be 
temporarily divested of office in order to take any part in 
debate. Cushing 108; Robert 123 (notes); Reed 40, 41; 
Fox 25. 

747. Is the chairman permitted to make or to second mo- 
tions? 

Cannot make or second motions even in societies where 
seconding is the rule, without leaving the chair, and, as in de- 
bate, should do this rarely. If the chairman is very anxious 
to have a measure proposed some member can always be 
found who, will introduce it. 

748. If it is necessary for the chairman to vacate the chair 
what must she do? 

Call a vice president to the chair (the highest in rank 
present), or, in the absence of the vice presidents, any mem- 
ber. Robert 122 (note). 

749. How should the chairman speak of herself? 

Always as "the chair":— "The chair rules," or "the chair 
decides," so and so, except when mentioning something done 
outside the meeting in an official capacity, when she may 
say: "Your president," etc. 

750. What opportunity is offered the presiding officer under 
the head of "Communications from the President" in the Or- 
der of Business? 

The opportunity to present in writing her views, desires 
and reasons for any action taken in an emergency. The com- 
munication should be read standing. Fox 18. 

751. May a member be called to the chair? 



158 

If no vice presidents are present the presiding officer 
may name a member to take her place until adjournment o£ 
the meeting (but not longer) if it becomes necessary to va- 
cate the chair. Robert 122. 

752. How should the person occupying the chair while the 
president vacates it temporarily be addressed? 

As Madam, or Mrs. Chairman, and not by the title of the 
presiding officer. Such chairman is not vested with authority 
as is a chairman elected to serve pro tern. Lewis. 

753. If a presiding officer is obliged ,to be absent from a 
meeting, can she appoint a chairman in advance of the meet- 
ing? 

No. Robert 122. 

754. What courtesy should be shown the vice president? 
The president should sometimes ask the vice president to 

preside and may well stay away from a meeting now and 
then, notifying the vice president beforehand of the business 
likely to come up. This will give the second in command a 
little useful practice and will keep her interested. Fox 28. 

755. When officers are elected (at an annual meeting usu- 
ally) is it necessary for the presiding officer to leave the 
chair while a successor is being elected? 

Not necessary and not recommended. 

756. When is it proper for the chair to vote? 

When the vote is by ballot, and in all other cases where 
the vote would change the result, for instance: — when there 
is a tie, when her vote would make a tie, and when the yeas 
and nays are called. Should always vote last except when by 
ballot. Cannot vote by ballot after the tellers have com- 
menced to count the votes, without permission from the body. 
Robert 112, 121 (also note) ; Shattuck 105. 

757. When may the president call a meeting? 

Only when authorized to do so by standing rule or direct 
vote. A rule in very general use is that the president may 
call special meetings at her discretion or when requested to 
do so by three (or five, etc.) members. This should be incor- 
porated in the by-laws. 

758. When a motion is made that refers to the chairman who 
should put it to vote? 

The president should request the secretary or the maker 
of the motion to put it to vote. 



159 

NOTE. 

This applies especially to motions in which there is praise 
or blame, or anything that is likely to embarrass the chair, 
and not to nomination for office. 

759. Is the chair privileged to change the wording of a mo- 
tion? 

Strictly speaking, no, but if this can be done in such a 
manner as to improve the motion without in any way chang- 
ing the meaning so that it remains acceptable to the. maker 
of the motion it is not only permissible but desirable. To do 
this without giving offence requires .intelligence and tact. 

760. Before putting a question to vote what is the duty of 
their chair? 

To give every reasonable opportunity ( for a full under- 
standing of the matter. 

761. How, especially, should the chair help inexperienced 
members? 

When a motion is made which is not the correct one, in- 
stead of ruling it out of order, should tactfully substitute the 
right one, for instance, if it is moved "to lay on the table for 
thirty days" the motion may be put as a motion "to postpone" 
to that time, or if it were moved "that a proposition be re- 
jected," the motion may be put as a motion "to postpone in- 
definitely." Instead of putting the correct motions herself 
the chair may suggest the correct ones to the mover, but the 
chair can frequently put the motions properly without attract- 
ing attention. Robert 124 (note). 

762. Can the chair interrupt a speaker? 

No, unless the speaker is out of order, or there is disor- 
der in the assembly, or the Orders of the Day are due, or 
there is Objection to Consideration of the speaker's motion. 
Robert 27. 

763. What is the duty of the chair in regard to debate? 

To restrain the members within the rules of order; , to 
call a speaker to order who is "off the motion." She should 
encourage inexperienced and timid members to .debate, but 
should not call upon them by name, except in rare cases, as 
when some particular person is especially well informed on a 
subject, and should also endeavor to repress over zealous 
members who show a disposition to speak too often and too 
long. Robert 20; Shattuck 70, 73. 



160 

764. What is the right of the chair as to decisions on points 
of order? 

If her ruling is questioned has precedence in debate on 
the appeal and may debate and give reasons for the ruling 
without leaving the chair. May allow remarks before giving 
the ruling, but is not obliged to and may stop them and give 
a decision at any time. 

765. What is the duty of the chair in regard to committees? 
Should not try to advise or manipulate them unless asked 

to assist. Is not a member of any, ex-officio, except by special 
rule. 

766. What is the duty of the chair to elections when no 
method is prescribed? 

To ask, "How shall the election be held?" (See Question 
331, Lesson V.) 

767. What has the chair the right to do if disorder prevails 
to such an extent as to block business? 

May suspend business until order is restored and as a 
last resort may declare the assembly adjourned. Robert 
120 (note). 

768. What should the president sign? 

Usually all contracts, warrants, checks and legal docu- 
ments are signed or countersigned by the presiding officer, 
and all formal communications to any other organization or 
to non-members. If the minutes are to be published, both 
president and secretary should sign them. It is best for each 
society to state in its by-laws what the president must sign. 
Cushing 27; Reed 38; Pox 26; Robert 120. 

769. Should a presiding officer ever act on her own initia- 
tive? 

While a presiding officer should be careful not to over- 
step her authority, she should also have the courage of her 
convictions and in emergencies call meetings or do what 
seems necessary to be done, whether there is a rule for such 
action or not. If the society is convinced of her sincerity, 
integrity and devotion to the best interests of the organiza- 
tion she will have little difficulty in getting her actions rati- 
fied, especially if she admits frankly that it is possible that 
her judgment may be at fault. Such frankness coupled with 
an earnest desire to do the right thing is sure to disarm un- 



161 

kind criticism. Robert's "Hints to Inexperienced Chairmen," 
(160), is recommended for careful reading. 

770. What is it customary for a vice president to do? 

In the. absence of the presiding officer all the duties of 
that office are to be performed by the highest in rank of the 
vice presidents. In case of the resignation or death of the 
president the vice president occupies the chair until a new 
president is elected. In some clubs it is the custom to make 
the vice president chairman of an important committee, such 
as the executive or prospectus, for example. 

771. What is the Secretary variously called? 

Secretary, usually, clerk, recorder, scribe, and many 
other and sometimes fanciful titles in various social, , mystic, 
etc., societies. 

772. What are some of the necessary qualifications of a sec- 
retary? 

Should be a. good reader, have a good voice, write well, 
be accurate, observant and attentive to duties. 

773. Where should the secretary be placed? 

Should be seated at desk or table near the presiding 
officer. 

774. What are some of the duties of a secretary? 

To send notices for meetings, when instructed by proper 
authority; to call the roll or note members present; to ascer- 
tain the presence of a quorum and to notify the chairman; to 
call meetings to order in the absence of higher officers and 
have a chairman pro tern, elected; to record at the time and 
afterwards write out in permanent form the proceedings of 
the society; to have on hand at each meeting, for the use of 
the chairman, a list of all committees and their membership 
and a record of unfinished, tabled or postponed matters and 
all such business as should come before the meeting, arranged 
in the order in which it should be taken up; to prepare and 
keep an accurate list of members; to read all papers and 
motions or resolutions when requested by the presiding of- 
ficer or the assembly or required by the rules, and, if there 
is no corresponding secretary, the recording secretary reads 
all communications addressed to the society except those of 
the president, and performs all the other duties of a corre- 
sponding secretary. It is the duty of the recording secretary 
to count the votes on either side when the vote, is by raising 



162 

hands or rising unless tellers are appointed to do this; to 
call the roll when the vote is by yeas and nays; to draw up 
and sign all warrants upon the treasurer, unless a special 
rule provides otherwise. The secretary should indorse on the 
reports of committees the elate of reception and what action 
was taken upon them and preserve them among the records, 
for which she is responsible; and when a committee is ap- 
pointed should hand a list containing the names of its mem- 
bers and all papers pertaining to the subject committed, to 
the chairman or some member. 

774. How should the secretary record votes? 

If the vote on a question is by division or ballot the num- 
ber cast for or against should be recorded and if by yeas, 
and nays, the names of those voting on each side should ap- 
pear in the minutes. 

775. Of what has the secretary custody? 

Of the minutes and all papers or documents connected 
with the work that are not in charge of any other officer, but 
they are open to the inspection of each member and are at 
the service of committees in need of them in their work, 
upon the order of the chairman. 

776. If the secretary is absent, can the president appoint one 
pro tern.? 

Yes, and if the president and secretary are both absent 
the assembly can fill both places temporarily. 

777. What must the secretary record and when is a full rec- 
ord desirable? 

Minutes should record, all motions that have been stated 
by the chair, and how disposed of, whether lost or carried, 
tabled, postponed, etc.; results of elections; questions of 
privilege; points of order and how decided by , the chair; in 
short, all that is done but not what is said, unless by special 
rule. A full record is desirable when the minutes are to be 
published and sometimes it is desirable to include some of 
the arguments, addresses, etc. The society may decide what 
shall be recorded. , 

778. What are the essential items of the Minutes? 

(a) The kind of meeting, whether regular, special, ad- 
journed regular, annual, etc., (b) the name of, the society, 
(c) date and place of meeting (except when the place Is al- 
ways the same), (d) who served as chairman and secretary, 



163 

whether regular officers or substitutes, (e) number and 
sometimes names of those present, (f) whether the minutes 
of the previous meeting were read and approved. 

779. How should the minutes be kept and by whom should 
they be signed? 

Minutes should be kept in a book with a wide margin, or 
space at the foot of the page or every other page left blank 
to allow for possible corrections. They should be signed by 
the person who acted as secretary after being approved by 
the society. Fox 29; Robert 127, 164. 

780. What are the three ways of recording communications, 
reports, etc.? 

1. Every one copied in full in the minutes. 2. Each 
numbered and filed, in which case they need only be men- 
tioned in the minutes. 3. (most used) The substance of each 
(digest) entered in the language of the secretary as briefly 
as is consistent with accuracy, each subject in a separate 
paragraph for easy reference. As minutes have no index, to 
indent each paragraph is a great help if it becomes necessary 
to search them for some special information. Fox 30, 159. 

781. What sort of report may be summarized? 

A report without any resolutions attached, but if there 
are resolutions, etc., if adopted they should be copied in full 
as adopted, in which event a summary is not needed. 
Robert 129. 

782. Where the object is simply to furnish a legal record 
for a permanent society and not one for publication what 
should the minutes contain? 

Should be merely a record of what is done. 

783. Why must the minutes be approved by the organization? 
The record stands as the legal acts of the society and 

would be so regarded in a court of law which is why they 
must be approved. Besides this, the secretary must be re- 
lieved of responsibility by the approval of the society of what 
has been recorded by her as the acts, orders, etc., of the 
society. 

784. Is it necessary to vote on the minutes or on amend- 
ments to them (corrections) ? 

Not formally, except where there Is difference of opinion 
as to the correction. Approval in routine matters is usually 
by silent assent. 



164 

785. Does the secretary ever act in a financial capacity? 

In many societies the secretary, besides acting as record- 
ing officer, collects the dues of members. If the treasurer is 
to pay out money only on orders signed by the secretary, as 
is often the case, the secretary is responsible for the ex- 
penses and should make a full report of them, so classified 
that the society may know how much and for what its money 
is expended. Robert 166. 

786. What should be made clear by the by-laws? 

The duties not only of the recording secretary but of the 
corresponding, financial and federation secretaries, if the 
society has such officers. 

787. Should the secretary include any private opinions, any 
praise or blame, in the minutes? 

No. A motion to amend the minutes by striking out i» 
in order if any such insertions are made. 

NOTE. 

After the essential requirements are complied with any 
society is competent to decide what shall be included in its 
records, the character and objects of the society being the 
guide. In some societies, what is said, the trend of the dis- 
cussions, the conclusions arrived at, etc., are more important 
to the membership at large than the actual business, but in 
associations of this kind, educational, scientific, philanthropic 
and so on, the proceedings being voluminous, assistant secre- 
taries are employed or a stenographic report is provided for, 
in which event the regular secretary only records what is 
actually done. The addresses, discussions, etc., are frequent- 
ly published in full in pamphlet form, sometimes with the 
minutes, and sometimes separately. The secretary is at lib- 
erty to use her own judgment as to the details of the minutes 
unless the society has given instructions as to what is to be 
Included, but the essentials must in any case be complied 
with if the records are to be parliamentary. 

788. When there is a Corresponding Secretary what is ex- 
pected of her? 

A corresponding secretary usually attends to everything 
that comes under the head of correspondence, such as notify- 
ing persons of their election to membership, committees of 



165 

their appointment, officers of their election, replying to com- 
munications from other organizations, non-members, etc., and 
sometimes sends out all notices except fo* the payment of 
dues. When there are two secretaries all duties of a clerical 
nature, except keeping the records, may be divided between 
them as the society shall direct. 

789. What are the duties of a Treasurer? 

They vary somewhat in different societies. In the ma- 
jority of cases she acts merely as a banker, holding money 
and paying it out on order of the society, signed by either 
president or secretary, or both. Whether money should be 
disbursed upon warrants signed by certain officers; by vote 
of the club at the time; or by order of an executive or finance 
or auditing committee, is for the organization to decide. 

790. How often should the treasurer present a report and of 
what should it consist? 

An annual report is always required ,and should consist 
merely of a statement of the amount on hand at the beginning 
of the year, amount received during the year and from what 
sources, the total amount paid out and the balance on hand. 
If required the treasurer will of course report oftener. Once 
a month is customary in many societies. 

791. Why should details of dates and separate payments for 
the same thing be omitted from the annual report? 

Because they are confusing and useless and also because 
each member, officer or committee is required to render an 
itemized account of all sums expended by them. The audit- 
ing committee, furthermore, examines all details and testifies 
to results. 

792. What should a disbursing officer be careful to get and 
why? 

A receipt for each payment, these are her vouchers and 
must be examined by the auditing committee. Robert 167. 

793. Is the form of the treasurer's report always the same? 
It varies with the character and needs of the organiza- 
tion, but the following will serve as a guide for an annual re- 
port. A monthly report usually goes more into detail. 

Form of Treasurer'* Report. 

The una>rsi°med. Treasurer of the TTp-to-Date nub, of 



166 

New Orleans, La., begs leave to submit the following annual 
report: 

The balance on hand at the beginning of the year was 
sixty-five dollars and twenty-five cents ($65.25). There was 
received from all sources during the year two hundred and 
fifty dollars and ,fifty cents ($250.50). The expenditures dur- 
ing the year amounted to two hundred and one dollars and 
seventy-five cents ($201.75); leaving a balance on hand, June 
6th, 1914 of forty-eight dollars and seventy-five cents ($48.75). 

A detailed statement of receipts and expenditures is at- 
tached hereto and the auditors' indorsement appears on the 
face of this report. 

Respectfully submitted, Julia Morgan, Treasurer Up-to- 
Date Club. 

June 6, 1913, New Orleans, La. 

794. Should a treasurer's report be adopted after its recep- 
tion? 

No, it should either ,be placed on file or referred to an 
auditing committee. To adopt it makes the action taken in 
it the acts of the society and relieves the treasurer of any 
responsibility for errors. 

795. What is an auditing committee and where should its 
certificate appear? 

An auditing committee consists of one or more persons 
appointed by the president or governing board or elected by 
the assembly to examine the treasurer's books and vouchers 
and certify to their correctness. The committee's certificate 
should be written on the treasurer's statement or be , attached 
thereto. The books may be audited quarterly, semi-annually 
or annually as the society may require. 

Form of Auditor's Report. 

We do hereby certify that we have examined the accounts 
and vouchers of the treasurer and find them correct and that 
the balance in her hands is forty-eight dollars and seventy- 
five cents ($48.75). We wish further to compliment the treas- 
urer upon the neatness and accuracy of her books. 

Frances Windham, Margaret Nelson, Auditing Committee. 

June 6th, 1913, New Orleans, La. 



167 

796. Why should the treasurer insist upon having her ac- 
counts audited? 

Because by this means any error is quickly detected and 
corrected, and if the report of the auditing committee is ac- 
cepted this is equivalent to a resolution that the treasurer's 
report is correct. This relieves her of responsibility for the 
past and if the vouchers are afterwards lost it would make no 
trouble. All accounts should be carefully kept and no treas- 
urer worthy of the office objects to having them examined. 
Robert 166-167. 

797. What is usually required of a treasurer in whose hands 
sums or properties of value are placed? 

That bond shall be given in sufficient amount to protect 
the society. 

798. What should the treasurer do at the expiration of her 
term of office? 

Should turn over to her successor all books, records, 
balances, etc. 

Rights and Duties of Members. 

799. Upon what are the rights of each member based and 
what are the rights of each in regard to such propositions as 
she may wish to introduce? 

The rights of each member are based upon her equality 
with every other member, as a member, and each has the 
right to introduce propositions and to have them considered. 
Reed 46; Cushing 30; Hollister 33; Fox 35; Shattuck 43. 

800. Upon what is the duty of each member based? 

Upon the fact that she is a voluntary, component part of 
the whole which desires to act together, and which must come 
to some agreement in order to do so and to accomplish any- 
thing. Reed 47. 

801. What is a member's duty to the body and to the presid- 
ing officer? 

To be orderly and to assist in maintaining order, to make 
motions properly, to debate courteously, to refrain from any 
actions that will disturb others or prevent their hearing the 
speakers, that will occasion friction or that will delay the 
progress of business unnecessarily. To be loyal to the duly 
elected officers whether her personal choice or not. Fox 33; 
Reed 47; Shattuck 42. 



168 

802. What is both the right and the duty of members when 
clear as to their convictions? 

To vote. 

803. Duty in regard to the voice of the majority? 
To abide by it. 

804. Under what circumstances may a member properly 
contest the floor? 

If the presiding officer is unfair, or in error, in recogniz- 
ing another who addresses the chair later. 

805. Can she appeal from the decision of the chair? 
Yes, and need not obtain the floor to do so. 

806. If opposed to a measure what may a member do and 
what should she not do? 

She must not question the motives of those who favor the 
proposition although she may speak against it in the strongest 
terms of disapproval. "It is not the man, but the measure 
that is the subject of debate." 

807. When may a member put a motion to vote? 

If the chairman, vice chairman or secretary refuses to put 
a relevant motion to vote any member may do so. Hollister 
34 (i). 

808. What should a member be careful not to do? 

Should be careful not to intrude her private affairs or 
the business of any other society on the attention of the 
meeting. 

809. What should a member try to know? 

Something about parliamentary law and the constitution 
and rules of the society of which she is a member. 

810. When she does not know? 

May rise to make a Parliamentary Inquiry and need not 
be recognized by the chair in order to obtain the floor. 

811. What should be the attitude of a member in debate? 

Entirely impersonal; should not allude to members or 
address them by name and should avoid the personal pronoun 
as much as possible. When alluding to member should say, 
"The member who has just spoken," "one of those opposed," 
"the member on my right," "some of the members on this 
side," etc., and not "Mrs. Blank " When making sugges- 



169 

tions would better say, "Probably the wisest course would 
be," "It would seem that," instead of "I think," or "In my 
opinion," etc. 

812. In speaking to a motion what is her duty? 

To speak strictly on the subject, to be as brief, as con- 
cise, as correct and as well informed on the subject as pos- 
sible. Shattuck 62, 68; Cushing 110. 

813. If there is no rule limiting debate how long can a mem- 
ber speak? 

As long as good taste dictates, if in order. Cushing 112. 

814. If interrupted while speaking has she the right to the 
floor again? 

If one yields the floor of necessity the right to resume is 
retained, if the yielding is .voluntary the right is lost. 

815. If asked to yield the floor is it discourteous to refuse? 
No, because one runs the risk of losing the floor. 

816. What are the rights of a member if accused of irregular 
or improper conduct and what the proper course? 

Has the right to be heard in defense and to produce wit- 
nesses and should then withdraw. May also ask the appoint- 
ment of a committee of investigation. 

817. When .should the member withdraw and when be ex- 
cluded? 

Should withdraw as soon as all the evidence has been 
submitted. Should be excluded while the case is being dis- 
cussed and decided, if withdrawal has not been voluntary as 
it properly should be. 

818. What punishment can an organization inflict? 

A vote of censure, a reprimand, exclusion from the meet- 
ing, withdrawal of speaking or voting privileges for a speci- 
fied time, suspension of membership, and expulsion. Cushing 
34; Reed 168; Robert 198; Fox 101. 

819. How should each member conduct himself in order to be 
of greatest value to the organization of which he is a volun- 
tary component part? 

As the object of organization is to enable persons to act 
together as a body each member should so conduct himselt 
as to facilitate that result. Reed 48. 



170 

NOTE. 

Other requirements of "good membership" will be found 
here and there throughout the Lessons but more specifically 
in Lesson III on Debate and Decorum in Debate. 

References — Duties and Rights of Officers. Robert Art. 
VII, 119; Art X, 159; Reed Chapt. IV, 35; Cushing Chapt. II, 
25; Shattuck Chapt. IV, 40; Fox Chapt, III, 23; Hollister Sect. 

V, 25. 

Duties and Rights of Members — Robert Art. V, 98 Art. 

VI, 109; Reed Chapt. V, 46; Cushing Chapt. Ill, 30; Shattuck 
Chapt. IV, 43; Fox Chapt. Ill, 23; Hollister Sect. X, 33. 



LESSON XII. 
Review Questions. 
"One only knows what one practices. — Savonarola. 



What is Parliamentary Law? Whence is it derived? 
Into how many classes is it divided? Upon what principles is 
it based? What purpose does it serve? What is its status in 
courts of law? 

How is all business introduced and transacted? Name 
the four classes of motions. What is the character and ob- 
ject of each class? Name the motions in each class. 

Study the Progress of an Independent or Main . Motion 
from the moment of its introduction to the time of final de- 
cision and see if the manner in which these actions may be 
accomplished is understood. 

The Progress of an Independent or Main Motion. 

It Must Be: Made, Seconded (when obligatory), Stated, 
Put to Vote, Declared carried or lost. It May Be: Objected 
to as a subject for Consideration, Withdrawn or Modified by 
the mover, Divided, Considered Informally or in Committee 
of the Whole, Debate on it may be Limited; Extended, Closed 
at a stated Time or at Once by the Previous Question. It 
may be Amended and the amendment may be Accepted, It 
may be Laid on the Table, Postponed Definitely or Indefinite- 
ly, Committed or Recommitted, made a Special Order, Re- 
considered or Renewed or Rescinded and Expunged from the 
Minutes, 

It May Be Interrupted By: A Question of Privilege, a 
Point of Order, a call for the Orders of the Day or the Read- 
ing of a Paper or by motions to Take a Recess or to Adjourn, 
or to Provide for the Manner of Voting or to Enter a motion 
to Reconsider on the minutes. A substitute may be offered 
for it, Blanks in it may be Filled with a sum, a time or a name 
and a Rule may be Suspended for its benefit. 

What is the object of Debate? Why is it limited or pro- 
hibited on some motions? What five motions apply especial- 
ly to debate and what is the effect of each? 



172 

What are the three usual ways to Amend an unsatisfac- 
tory motion? What equivalent forms are used to express 
them? How many times may a motion be amended? How 
many amendments may be pending at the one time? Besides 
the three usual ways to Amend what two special forms are 
treated as of the nature of amendment? Can an entirely new 
motion, amendment, paragraph or section be offered for an- 
other? 

Ask and answer the following questions in regard to each 
motion in all the classes except the Independent or Main 
Motion. How is it classified? What is the form for moving 
or making it? 

To what motions does it apply? What Is its nature and 
object? Its effect if carried; if lost? By whom, when and 
under what circumstances can it be made? How does debate 
apply to it, that is, is debate full or limited and does the mo- 
tion open the Main Question to full debate? Can it be: 
Tabled? Prequestioned? Postponed? Committed? Amended? 
Postponed Indefinitely? Reconsidered or Renewed? 

Where Seconding is obligatory what motions do not re- 
quire a second? What motions require more or less than a 
Majority Vote? What motions sometimes lose their Privi- 
leged character? When and why? 

Besides the six Subsidiary Motions what three, one In- 
cidental and two Privileged, are most frequently used? 

On what Questions can an Appeal be taken, and why? 

What is the difference between the motions to Lay on 
the Table, to Postpone Definitely and to Postpone Indefinite-, 
ly? What is the difference between the motions to Lay on 
the Table and to Postpone Definitely regarded as motions 
to delay or to prevent hasty action? 

What is the proper use of each of the three Subsidiary 
motions: to Lay on the Table, to Postpone Definitely and 
to Postpone Indefinitely? 

How can a question that has Once been Acted upon be 
against brought forward? 

How can a Defeated Motion be prevented from being 
brought forward at successive meetings or at frequent inter- 
vals? 

What Rules may be suspended? Upon what principle 
does a tie vote sustain the chair? When are Nominations 



173 

from the floor in order? When is the motion to Close Nomi- 
nations in order? , 

When is the motion to Adjourn in order? When is an as- 
sembly adjourned? 

DRILL. 

A. Precedence of Motions, etc. 

The following resolution offered? Resolved, "That our 
ciut) lay before the Representatives of this district the im- 
perative need for a new dormitory for girls af the State Uni- 
versity and request them to introduce a bill at the next meet- 
ing of the Legislature asking for an appropriation of not less 
than $50,000 for the building and that they be asked to pledge 
their support to said bill." , 

Mrs. Goodwyn (obtaining floor) : "Madam President, I 
call for the reading of a paper bearing on this subject. The 
paper is a communication that was sent to our corresponding 
secretary some time ago by the secretary of the Board of 
Directors of the University/' (Member tries to debate by 
saying something about the contents of the paper and the 
condition of the dormitory). 

The Chair: "The call for the reading of a paper is unde- 
batable, if there is no objection the paper will be read/' 
(Paper read.) 

Mrs. Cummings: "I move that the rule confining the 
privilege of the floor to members be suspended. We have 
with us today Mrs. Hawkins, who is familiar with the condi- 
tions at the University and knows just what is needed." 

The Chair: "All in favor of suspending the rule rise, 
stand and be counted." (Secretary counts). "Two-thirds 
having voted in favor of the motion the rule is suspended and 
Mrs. Hawkins has the privilege of the floor." (Two members 
rise at the same time, chair recognizes Mrs. Collins, Mrs. 
Barnett raises a point of order and says that Mrs. Fitzpatrick 
rose first.) 

The Chair: "The Chair gives the floor to Mrs. Collins." 
Mrs. Barnett: "I appeal from the decision of the chair." 
The Chair: "The decision of the Chair is questioned, the 
floor was given to Mrs. Collins because this is the first time 
she has asked for it, Mrs. Fitzpatrick has already spoken sev- 
eral times. Shall the decision of the Chair be sustained? 



174 

All in favor " (Chair sustained). Mrs. Collins and sev- 
eral others debate original motion). 

Mrs. Fawcett: "I move the previous question." 

The Chair: "The previous question is ordered. Shall 
the main question be now put? All in favor rise, stand and be 
counted." (Motion lost and debate on main question re- 
sumed). 

Mrs. Quentin: "Madam President, I call for the Orders 
of the Day." 

The Chair: "The Orders of the Day are called for. All 
in favor of proceeding to the Orders of the Day say aye. All 
opposed, no. The noes have it and the motion is lost." 

Mrs. Foster: "Madam President, I move that this mat- 
ter of interesting our Representatives in a bill for an appro- 
priation for a new dormitory at the State University be re- 
ferred to a committee." (Debate). 

Mrs. Stone: "I move that it be postponed until the next 
regular meeting and that the secretary write to the Univer- 
sity for some instruction in regard to a suitable bill." 

Mrs. Lindhurst: "I move to lay the matter on the table." 

The Chair: "It is moved (and seconded) to lay the mat- 
ter on the table., (member tries to debate, ruled out of order, 

motion to Lay on Table undebatable) "All in favor " 

(motion lost). "The vote now falls on the motion to Post- 
pone, (debate limited to propriety of postponing, motion put 
and lost). The question now recurs upon the adoption of the 
motion to refer the matter to a committee." 

Mrs. Foster: "I move to amend by adding the words 
'consisting of three members and that the committee report 
at the regular meeting four weeks from now, this will give 
the committee ample time to secure all the necessary infor- 
mation." (Chair states amendment and reads motion as it 
will be if the amendment is adopted, debate follows and the 
motion to commit is adopted). 

The Chair: "The Chair, will appoint the committee later." 
B. Previous Question, unlimited and limited: 
A main motion, an amendment and a motion to commit 
are pending and then the previous question ( is ordered. 

The Chair: "The previous question is ordered. Shall 
the main question be now put? All in favor please say aye. 



175 

All opposed, no. The motion is carried. The question now 
recurs on the amendment to the main motion (the motion to 
commit was cut off by the previous question and all votes 
must be taken without discussion). All in favor of the 

amendment The vote now falls on the main motion as 

amended. All in favor Motion is carried." 

An independent or main motion, an amendment and a 
motion to commit are pending. 

Mrs. Perkins: "Madam Chairman, I move the previous 
question on the motion to commit." 

The Chair: "The previous question is ordered. Shall 
debate be now closed on the motion to commit and the vote 
taken? All in favor of closing debate say aye The mo- 
tion is carried. The question now recurs on the motion to 
commit. All in favor of referring the (stating the subject of 

the main motion) to a committee say aye The motion 

is lost. (Debate may now be resumed on the amendment to 
the main motion.) Lesson III. 

C. Practice Electing by: 

Acclamation, Ballot and Plurality Vote. Ballot and Ma- 
jority Vote. Nominating Committee and Election by Ballot. 
Informal or nominating ballot and election by ballot. Secre- 
tary casting the vote. Lesson V. 



INDEX. 

(Numerals refer to Questions unless preceded by the word 

page.) 

Adjourn, 416-425; 60, 206, 379; when not in order, 422; sine 
die, 435; Fix Time and Place to which to, 410-415; note, 
page 87; references, pages, 88, 91. 

Amend, 128-153; inserting, 131; striking out, 134; striking out 
and inserting, 137; references, page 32. 

Amendment, 88-127; to what applied, 113; accepting, 104-107; 
general rule, 126; giving notice, 124; constitution and 
by-laws, 564, 565; Chart, page 34; notes, pages 24, 35; 
references, page 27; drill, pages 35, 96. 

Appeal, 480-494; 206, 441, 805; references, page 102. 

Ballot, 333-352; 329, 649; secretary casts, 356; Informal or 
nominating, 320; illegal, 349; box, 358; form for announc- 
ing, page 74. 

Blanks, Filling, 154-158; sums, 155; times, 156; names, 158; 
references, page 35 t 

Board of Directors, 578, 579, 677, 735. 

Business, Order of, 695-699; basis for, 17; routine, 425; inter- 
rupted, 281-283; 444; unfinished, 697; taken out of order, 
699; suggested forms for, pages 144, 145. 

By-Laws, 712-718; 564, 669; form, page 149; references, page 
154. 

Chair, (see Presiding Officer). 

Chart of Motions and Rules Relating to them, pages 80B and 
80C. 

Commit, or Refer or Recommit, 507-519; 151, 153, 202; note, 
page 109; references, page 110. 

Committee, and its Report, 520-551; 631-633; classes, 521; 
chairman, 533; appointment, 524; 527; 628; procedure, 
539; powers, 540; sub-, 580; ex-officio member, 576; ex- 
ecutive, 578, 579; constitution, etc., 657, 663; auditing, 
795; credentials 610, 640; nominating, 323, 324. 658; of 
the whole, 584-595, 168, 214; standing, 582; special. 522; 
reports (see Reports); discharged, 569; motion to form. 
516; Resolutions, page 121; functions defined for by-laws. 
page 123; form of reports, page 124; references, pages 
125, 126. 

Consent, unanimous, 307, 310, 311; Silent Assent, 300. 

Constitution, 710-719; adoption, 564; committee on f.r>7, 663- 
666; 720; form, page MX; charter, 713; note, page L49; 
references, page 154. 

Convention (see Organization). 

Credential Committee (see Committee). 

Credentials, 609, 600; questioned, 645; form, page L37, 



Debate, page 36; 159-195; when in order, 33, 164; usual rules, 
172; extend, 175; close, 217, 218; prevent, 219; addressed 
to, 192; informal, 161, 163, 168, 624, 625; limited, 192; 
193; full, 194; references, page 42. 

Decorum, breaches, 184-186. 

Diagram of Motions, page 4. 

Delegates, 644, 652. 

Division, of motion, 75-87; note and references, page 21; drill, 
page 106. 

Elections, 319, 329, 342, 359, 620, 621, 766; motion to proceed 
to, 318; common method, 333; vote required, 340; no 
choice, 339; independent vote, 347; of delegates, 348-352; 
of officers, 360-365; annual, 755; negative vote, 355. 

Forms, of motions, will be found in the lesson in which the 
particular subject is treated. 

Floor, obtaining, 23, 24; yielding, 179, 815; contesting, 180, 
804; claiming before yielded, 191. 

Informal Ballot, (see Ballot). 

Informal Consideration, 596-603; 168, 169; references, page 27. 

Incidental Motions, 465-467; note, page 98; references, page 
99: drill, nage 105. 

Lay on the Table, 240-258; 60, 151, 206, 379; legitimate use, 
241; privileged, 244; limitations, 245; Subject to Call, 249. 

Lesson I, page 9; II, 22; III, 36; IV, 49; V, 63; VI, 86; VII, 
98; VIII, 108; IX, 128; X, 142; XI, 153; XII, 171. 

Meeting, 721-735; 359, 360; regular, 679, 683; special, 680, 686; 
annual, 681; adjourned, 683, 374. 

Members, Rights and Duties, 799-819; 475, 532, 533, 576, 581; 
in debate, 186, 811-814; charter, 667; non-, 575; conduct, 
183, 389; 802, 803; note and references, page 170. 

Membership, 728-731. 

Minutes, 700-709; 777-778; 590, 598, 662; essentials, 778; cor- 
rection, 703; note, 164; references, page 154. 

Minority Report (see Reports). 

Miscellaneous Motions, page 105. 

Main Motion or Question, 16-41; 85, 98, 100, 103, 110, 126, 220, 
223, 367, 380, 388, 543; making, 23, 24; stating, 34; put- 
ting, 38, 295, 296; declaring, 41, 295, 296; speaking to, 
speaking off, 178; important points, 46; principles apply- 
ing, 47; progress of, page 171; note and references, page 
16; drill, page 17. 

Motions, classes, 42-45; how they differ, 406. 

Motions, That Cannot be: amended, 114; committed, 519; de- 
bated, 42; divided, 87; reconsidered, 393; renewed, 397; 
tabled alone, 252. That are in Order: without obtaining 
the floor, 27; whenever a motion to Adjourn is, 431; 



while a motion to Adjourn is pending, 427; while the 
Previous Question is pending, 206; while a member is 
speaking, 177; That Do Not: require a second, 32, 321; 
yield to Objection to Consideration, 60; That Require: a 
two-thirds vote, 308; a unanimous vote, 310; That May 
be tabled alone, 251; That Should require a unanimous 
vote, 311; Upon Which full or limited debate is allowed, 
page 41; Made in connection with reports, 554. 

Motions, classified according to object, page 104. 

Nominations, 319-329; from the floor, 325; limited, 326; closed, 
327, 328, 347. 

Notice of Amendment, 124. 

Objection to Consideration, 48-60; 255; references, page 18; 
drill, page 105. 

Officers, Rights and Duties, 738-798; for organization, 622; 
pro tern, 661; 620, 621, 685, 752; permanent, 670, 672; 
when duties are assumed, 363, 671; note, page 159; refer- 
ences, page 170. 

Order, call to, 617, 618, 651, 687. 

Order, Questions or Points, 468-479; 433, 494, 206. 

Orders of the Day, page 93; 449-464; 276, 278; illustration and 
references, page 96. 

Organization, 604-737; convention, 638-653; mass or temporary, 
615-635; permanent, 654-677; double, 637; simple, 636 
object, 604; to disband, 736; kinds of assemblies, 606 
principles of decision in, 619; undisputed rights, 127 
drill and references, page 140. 

Papers, Call for Reading, 495-499; references, page 103. 

Parliamentary Inquiries, 428, 810. 

Parliamentary Law, 1-15; references, page 11. 

Postpone, to a Definite Time, 265-285; 151, 202; object and 
effect, 266, 267, 276; time limit, 280. 

Postpone Indefinitely, 286-294; 60, 152, 202; object and use, 
286; note, page 61; references, page 62. 

Precedence of Motions, 226-228; 235-237. 

Presiding Officer, 739-769; 493, 541, 593, 620, 626, 686, 476-47S; 
in debate, 176; vote of, 297; pro tern, 685, 752; to address, 
192. 

Previous Question, 195-216; 119, 255, 256, 274, 292, 489, 513; 
to what applied and how, 197-200; points to be remem- 
bered, 216; note, page 46; references and drill, page 48. 

Privileged motions, 405-409; references, page cS7; drill, page 96, 

Privilege, Question of, 438-448; 206, 469, 494; illustration and 
references, page 93. 

Punishment, 818, 187, 188, 319. 

'estion, The, 33 (see Main Motion). 



Quorum, 688, 690-694; 541, 591; references, page 154. 

Recess, 357, 431, 437, 630. 

Recognition, by chair, 28, 181. 

Reconsider, 366-398; 206; to what applied, 380; once only, 369; 
by whom, 371; when, 373; general rules, 382; debate three 
times, 388; when too late, 395; motion to Enter on the 
Minutes a Motion to, 378; technical reconsideration, 394; 
note, pages, 79, 83; references, page 83. 

Renew, 395-398; 238; illustration and references, page 84. 

Reports, 551-572; 631, 633, 641, 642; committee, 551; annual, 
579; to table, 248; taken collectively, 248; recommenda- 
tions in, 572; forms, pages, 121, 124; minority, 549, 552; 
references, page 120. 

Review Questions, page 171. 

Roll Call, 689. 

Rules, standing, 714; special, 9-11, 715; of order, 716; to sus- 
pend, page 103; references, page 154. 

Seconding, 29-31; 62, 63; note, page 13; references, page 14. 

Secretary, 771-789; 285, 621; corresponding, 288; financial, 
785; counts votes, 205. 

Session, 721-727; to go into executive, 726. 

Society, permanent, 638, 639, 654-737; auxiliary, 668; subor- 
dinate, 506; incorporated, 674, 737. 

Subsidiary Motions, 220-239; 367; note, page 51; references, 
page 53. 

Substitute Motion, etc., 146-152; two methods, 148-150; chart, 
page 35; references, page 32; drill, page 107. 

Suspension of Rules, 500-506; constitution, 717; by-laws, 718; 

note, page 56; references, page 57. 

Take from the Table, 258-264, 60; note, page 56; references, 
page 57. 

Treasurer, page 165; 789-798; form of reports of treasurer and 
auditor, pages 165, 166. 

Tally and Tellers, 335, 336, 337. 

Vacancies in Office, 365. 

Voting on Questions, on Elections, 295-365; methods, 298, 299, 
333, 345; The Vote, page 64; 300-312; change of, 315; 
doubting, 301; viva voce, 341, (see Ballot); acclamation, 
330; proxy, 338; Yeas and nays, 309, 353; silent assent, 
300; majority, 303, 306; plurality, 304, 14; tie, 302, 487; 
two-thirds, 14; unanimous, 310, 311, 14; collective, 348; 
of thanks, 733; references, page 76; drill, page 175. 

Vice-President 770, 748, 754. 

Withdrawal, of motion, 61-74; references, page 19. 

Whole, Committee of the, (see Committee). 



